Definition

A cone biopsy is a surgical procedure in which a cone-shaped tissue sample from the cervix is removed for examination. Also called cervical conization, a cone biopsy is done to diagnose cervical cancer or to remove cancerous or precancerous tissue.

Purpose

The cervix is the neck-shaped opening at the lower part of the uterus. The American Cancer Society estimated that in 2003, approximately 12,200 women would be diagnosed with cancer of the cervix and 4,100 women

From http://www.answers.com/topic/cone-biopsy