Type of Surgery
Information
Last updated: 02/17/2009
A normal result is no recurrence of the abnormal cervix cells. The first follow-up Pap smear is done within three to six months. If normal, Pap smears are repeated every six months for two years. If any, recurrences usually occur within two years of...
treatment. Another option is to replace the initial and each yearly Pap smear with a colposcopic examination.
If a follow-up Pap smear is abnormal, a colposcopy with biopsy is usually performed. Other treatment methods, usually the loop electrocautery excision procedure (LEEP) are then used if persistent disease is discovered.
Following the procedure, it is considered normal to experience the following:
- slight cramping for two to three days
- watery discharge requiring several pad changes daily
- bloody discharge, especially 12–16 days after the procedure
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Definition
Cervical cryotherapy is a procedure which involves freezing an area of abnormal tissue on the cervix. This tissue gradually disappears and the cervix heals. One cervical cryotherapy is usually sufficient to destroy the abnormal tissue.
Purpose
Cervical cryotherapy is a standard method used to treat cervical dysplasia, meaning the removal of abnormal cell tissue on the cervix.
Description
Cervical cryotherapy, or freezing, usually lasts about five minutes and causes a slight amount of discomfort. The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient setting.
Cervical cryotherapy is done by placing a small freeze-probe (cryoprobe) against the cervix that cools the cervix to sub-zero temperatures. The cells destroyed by freezing are shed afterwards in a heavy watery discharge. The main advantage of cryotherapy is that it is a simple procedure that requires inexpensive equipment.
The cryogenic device consists of a gas tank containing a refrigerant and non-explosive, non-toxic gas (usually nitrous oxide). The gas is delivered using flexible tubing through a gun-type attachment to the cryoprobe.
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