Leep Procedure - Conization of Cervix
Cervical LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) is a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of cervical dysplasia (precancerous cells at the bottom of the uterus). Precancerous means that the cells are at high risk for turning into cancer. Dysplasia is often the reason for an abnormal PAP smear. It is treated by removing or destroying the abnormal cervical skin cells. LEEP can be used for diagnosis by checking for abnormal cells, or for treatment by removing the cells. The procedure involves inserting a speculum in the vagina just like for a PAP smear. A local anesthetic is used to numb the cervix. A high intensity electrical current is passed through a special wire loop. This allows the physician to remove a thin slice of cervical tissue where the dysplasia is found. The tissue that is removed is sent to a pathology laboratory to make sure all of the dysplasia is removed. The LEEP procedure takes about 5 minutes to perform and is relatively painless. Some mild cramping may occur afterwards and a small amount of discharge is normal. Patients should consult their physician for a complete explanation of the procedure along with its associated risks and complications.