Cervical Conization

Prior to Procedure –

Do not eat or drink anything for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure.

Anesthesia –

You will be given some type of anesthesia. These options include: local injection into the tissues surrounding the cervix with or without the addition of intravenous sedation; spinal anesthesia , which would numb the lower half of the body; and general anesthesia , which will put you to sleep through the duration of this procedure.

Description of the Procedure –

After you are given anesthesia, your doctor will insert a speculum similar to that used for a Pap smear to hold your vagina open and allow him or her to see the cervix. A cone-shaped piece of tissue is then removed from the cervix by knife, laser, or a heated electrocautery loop and sent to the pathology lab to test for cancerous cells. The cutting of the tissue can also be used as treatment for the elimination of the abnormal, precancerous cells.

After Procedure –

• You will wait for the anesthesia to wear off and most likely be discharged from the hospital the same day.
• You may have some bleeding or discharge from your vagina for several days postsurgery. A sanitary napkin or pad may be worn; tampons are not to be worn for a month or more postsurgery.
• You may be given pain relievers.
• Sexual intercourse is discouraged for 4-6 weeks.

How Long Will It Take –

The procedure takes less than an hour.

Will It Hurt –

Because you are under anesthesia during this procedure, you should not feel any pain. After the procedure, you may have some discomfort, for which you can take pain relievers.

Possible Complications –

• Infection
• Heavy bleeding
• Premature delivery with future pregnancies

Average Hospital Stay –

The procedure requires a several-hour stay in the hospital with a discharge the same day.

Postoperative Care –

Activities that risk the integrity of the cervical tissue, such as intercourse or tampon use, must be limited. A postoperative exam takes place at six weeks.