LEEP PROCEDURE (loop electrosurgical excision)
LEEP procedure is both a therapeutic and a diagnostic method used in case of patients with abnormal cervical screening and colposcopy results. Other indications for the procedure are suspicious changes on the cervix or large genital warts.
LEEP procedure uses a wire loop under a low-voltage electrical current to remove abnormal tissues of the cervix. It has an advantage, therefore, over the destructive techniques (CO2 laser and cryocautery) in that an intact tissue sample for a histopathological analysis can be obtained. It is worth stressing that this cervix saving procedure, is recommended by many renowned learned societies. After the procedure, the fertility as well as upkeeping of pregnancy are not affected.
Top Medical Clinic is currently one of a few private clinics in London where you can undergo the procedure. It is performed in a highly specialised surgery with the use of high-tech equipment, and the patient is under the care of a renowned specialist – Prof. Pawel Knapp.
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure is performed in the first phase of the menstrual cycle, just after the monthly period. It is done under local anaesthetic, on an examining table with the feet elevated in stirrups. A speculum (as used for the cervical screening test) is inserted to open the vaginal walls. Then a low-voltage electrical current is delivered via a thin wire that is passed through tissues to remove the abnormal areas of the cervix. The procedure requires extreme precision and is done under the control of a colposcope. It lasts for about 30 minutes.
What are the post-treatment recommendations?
Within the first few hours after the treatment, the patient may experience some mild pain and cramps. Oral painkillers are recommended.
For the first few days, there might be some discharge and spotting. It is strongly advised not to douche, use tampons, or have sex, to facilitate proper healing.
In case the discharge is of abnormal colour or smell, there is fever or excessive bleeding, the patient should contact the doctor immediately as these symptoms might be a sign of inflammation and antibiotics may be required.