Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure
(LEEP, LLETZ—Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone, LLEC—Large Loop Excision of the Cervix, Loop Cone Biopsy of the Cervix)
Definition
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) uses a thin wire loop to precisely cut out areas of the cervix. The cervix is a neck-like structure that connects the vagina and uterus. LEEP is done to remove abnormal cervical cells.
Reasons for Procedure
LEEP is often done after abnormal cells have been found on the cervix. These abnormal cells are often found on a Pap test . If the cells found on a Pap test show cervical dysplasia (abnormal cells) or cancer cells, a LEEP may be done.
Possible Complications
If you are planning to have LEEP, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:
- Bleeding
- Abdominal cramping
- Infection
- Future pregnancy problems (small increased risk of premature births and having a low birth weight baby)
- Narrowing of the cervix (very rare)
- Incomplete removal of the abnormal tissue
- Accidental cutting or burning of normal tissue
Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
- Menstruation at the time of the procedure—It is best to have LEEP done when you do not have your period.
- History of pelvic inflammatory disease
- Inflammation of the cervix
- Pregnancy or possible pregnancy
- Being overweight
- Smoking
Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the procedure.
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
In the weeks leading up to the procedure:
-
Talk to your doctor about your medicines. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines up to one week before the procedure, like:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (eg, aspirin )
- Blood thinners, such as clopidogrel (Plavix) or warfarin (Coumadin)
The day of the procedure:
- If your doctor will be giving you a sedative, arrange for someone to drive you home from the clinic.
- If directed by your doctor, take a pain reliever right before the LEEP.
- Bring sanitary napkins to use after the procedure.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is often used for a LEEP. This will keep you from feeling pain during the procedure. You will be awake during the procedure. The anesthesia may be applied with a lotion or injected into the area.
Description of the Procedure
You will lie on your back on a table with your feet up in foot rests. The doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina. This tool will separate the vaginal walls. This will allow the doctor to see the cervix. Anesthesia will be applied to the cervix to numb the area.
The doctor will then apply a solution to the cervical area. The solution will show the abnormal area that needs to be removed. The doctor will insert a thin wire into the vagina toward the cervix. You will hear a vacuum-like noise. You may also hear a humming noise. The thin wire loop is like a surgical knife. The doctor will be able to gently remove the abnormal tissue. You will need to stay very still. The doctor will cauterize the area. This process heats the blood vessels to stop bleeding. A paste may also be applied to stop bleeding.
How Long Will It Take?
LEEP only takes a few minutes.
How Much Will It Hurt?
You may feel cramping during LEEP. You should not feel any sharp pain.
Post-procedure Care
At the Care Center
Your blood pressure and heart rate will be checked. Once you are feeling okay, you will be able to go home.
At Home
After the procedure, you may have:
- Dark brown-black vaginal discharge for several days
- Mild cramping
- Watery pink discharge
When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:
- Rest when you get home.
- Frequently change the sanitary pad.
- Take pain medicine as directed.
-
It will take a few weeks for your cervix to heal. For four weeks:
- Do not use tampons or douches.
- Refrain from sexual intercourse.
- Do not do any heavy lifting.
- It is okay for you take baths and showers.
- If advised by your doctor, have a Pap test and pelvic exam every six months.
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Family Physicians
http://www.aafp.org/
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
http://www.acog.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Women’s Health Network
http://www.cwhn.ca/
Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of
Canada
http://www.sogc.org/
References:
LEEP patient pamphlet. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. Available at: http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp110.cfm. Accessed April 10, 2009.
Neff D. Endometrial ablation. EBSCO Health Library website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/thisTopic.php?marketID=15topicID=81. Updated May 2009. Accessed September 30, 2009.
Patient fact sheet: LEEP. American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology website. Available at: http://www.asccp.org/pdfs/patient_edu/leep.pdf. Accessed April 10, 2009.
Last reviewed November 2009 by Ganson Purcell, Jr., MD, FACOG, FACPE
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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