Name of the Procedure:

Conization of cervix; Loop Electrode Excision Procedure (LEEP)

Summary

Conization of the cervix, commonly referred to as LEEP, is a minor surgical procedure involving the removal of a cone-shaped section of abnormal cervical tissue using a thin, low-voltage electrified wire loop. It may be performed with or without additional techniques such as fulguration (cauterization) and dilation and curettage (D&C).

Purpose

The procedure is primarily used to diagnose and treat precancerous changes and early-stage cancers of the cervix. It aims to remove abnormal tissue that could potentially develop into cervical cancer, thereby preventing its progression.

Indications

• Abnormal Pap smear results
• Positive HPV test
• Cervical dysplasia (CIN 2 or CIN 3)
• Early-stage cervical cancer
• Persistent cervical lesions unresponsive to other treatments

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before the procedure.
• Review of current medications and possible cessation of blood-thinning medications.
• Preoperative pelvic exam and possibly diagnostic tests like colposcopy or biopsy.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned in a gynecological exam position.
2. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the cervix.
3. A speculum is inserted to widen the vaginal opening.
4. The electrified wire loop is carefully used to excise the cone-shaped segment of abnormal cervical tissue.
5. Additional techniques such as fulguration or dilation and curettage might be employed to treat or remove residual abnormal tissues.
6. The excised tissue is sent for pathological examination to confirm the diagnosis and ensure clear margins.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 20-30 minutes.

Setting

LEEP can be performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Gynecologist or specialized surgeon
• Nursing staff
• Occasionally, an anesthesiologist if general anesthesia is needed (though local anesthesia is more common)

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Cervical stenosis
• Potential impact on future pregnancies (e.g., cervical incompetence)
• Temporary discomfort or cramping

Benefits

• Effective removal of abnormal tissue, reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
• Rapid recovery with minimal downtime.
• Accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment of abnormal cervical cells.

Recovery

• Patients may experience mild cramping and spotting for a few days.
• Avoid heavy lifting, douching, or using tampons for a few weeks as advised.
• Sexual intercourse should be avoided until the cervix heals, typically around 4-6 weeks.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure clear margins.

Alternatives

• Cryotherapy (freezing abnormal cells)
• Laser ablation (destroying abnormal cells with laser)
• Watchful waiting with frequent monitoring in cases of mild dysplasia
• Each alternative has its pros and cons, such as varying recovery times and levels of effectiveness in treating or preventing cancer.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients might feel pressure and mild cramping.
• Post-procedure discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
• Emotional reassurance and physical comfort measures will be provided by healthcare professionals throughout the process.