LEEP AND CONE BIOPSY FOR ABNORMAL CERVICAL CELLS IN SHERMAN, TX
Treatment for abnormal Pap and cervical dysplasia
If your Pap test came back abnormal, LEEP and cone biopsy in Sherman, TX can help treat the problem. LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) and cone biopsy are used to remove abnormal cervical cells, also called cervical dysplasia (pre-cancer changes on the cervix). Our practice cares for women in Sherman and across North Texas and Texoma who have had an abnormal Pap smear or an abnormal colposcopy. These procedures remove the bad cells and let us test the tissue to make sure it is not cancer. Many patients search "LEEP procedure for abnormal pap" or "cone biopsy recovery," and we are glad to walk you through it. Catching and treating changes early is one of the best ways to protect your health. Call our Sherman, TX office at 903-957-0275 to schedule.
What is it / what is the condition? The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens into the vagina. Sometimes cells on the cervix change and grow in an abnormal way. This is called cervical dysplasia. It is not cancer, but if left alone it can slowly turn into cervical cancer over time. Abnormal cells are often found by a Pap smear (a test that checks cells from the cervix) or by a colposcopy (a close-up look at the cervix). LEEP and cone biopsy remove these cells so they can be treated and tested.
What is the procedure? A LEEP uses a thin wire loop that carries a small electric current. The loop gently shaves off a thin layer of abnormal tissue from the cervix. A cone biopsy (also called conization) removes a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix. A cold-knife cone biopsy uses a surgical blade and takes a deeper sample. LEEP both treats and tests the tissue, and a cone biopsy does the same, often when a larger or deeper sample is needed.
Why and when is it used? Your doctor may suggest LEEP or a cone biopsy after an abnormal Pap smear, an abnormal colposcopy, or a biopsy that shows cervical dysplasia. These procedures remove pre-cancer cells before they have a chance to turn into cancer. They can also help find out how deep the abnormal cells go.
What happens during it? A LEEP is often done right in the office and takes about 10 to 20 minutes. Your doctor uses a numbing shot (local anesthesia) in the cervix, so you stay awake but should not feel sharp pain. You may feel a brief pinch and some cramping. A cone biopsy, especially a cold-knife cone, is often done in an operating room while you are asleep under general anesthesia or numb from spinal anesthesia. Both are outpatient, so you go home the same day.
Recovery. Most women go back to work or normal life in a day or two after a LEEP. The cervix usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks to fully heal. It is normal to have mild cramping and some watery or brownish discharge for one to three weeks. To let the cervix heal, avoid tampons, sex, baths, and swimming until your doctor says it is okay, often about 4 weeks. Call your doctor if you have heavy bleeding (more than a normal period), bleeding with clots, a bad-smelling discharge, a fever, or strong belly pain. Have questions about LEEP or cone biopsy in Sherman, TX? Call or text us at 903-957-0275.