Colposcopy (cont.)
What should a patient expect from each of the treatments for cervical abnormalities?
Carbon dioxide laser photoablation
This procedure, which is also known as CO2 laser, uses an invisible beam of infrared light. The laser actually vaporizes the abnormal area. Lidocaine, a local anesthetic, is given to numb the area prior to the laser treatment. A chemical is applied afterwards to prevent delayed bleeding. A substantial amount of clear vaginal discharge and spotting of blood can occur for a few weeks after the procedure. To improve healing, sexual intercourse and tampon use should be delayed for several weeks.
The complication rate of this procedure is very low, about 1%. The most common complications are narrowing (stenosis) of the cervical opening and delayed bleeding. Disadvantages of this treatment include that this procedure does not allow sampling of the abnormal area and is not satisfactory for treating cervical cancer. It is useful, however, for milder dysplasia. It is generally not considered safe for use during pregnancy.
Cryocautery
Cryocautery is a relatively simple procedure that uses nitrous oxide to
freeze the abnormal area. This technique, however, is not optimal for large
areas or areas where abnormalities are already advanced or severe. After the
procedure, patients can experience a significant watery vaginal discharge for
several weeks. To improve healing, sexual intercourse is best avoided for
several weeks.
Significant complications of this procedure are rare and occur in about 1% of
patients. They include narrowing (stenosis) of the cervix and delayed bleeding.
Cryocautery does not allow sampling of the abnormal area and is generally felt
to be inappropriate for women with advanced cervical disease. Thus, this
procedure is not satisfactory for treating cervical cancer, but is useful for
milder dysplasia.
Next: Loop electrosurgical excision procedure »
- Pap Smear - Read about Pap smear, a test to screen for cervical cancer, and precancerous changes in the cervix. Risk factors for abnormal Pap include HPV, smoking medicaitons, and a weakened immune system.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Women (STDs) - Learn and become aware of common STDs in women, including descriptions, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments of each type of infection.
- Hysterectomy - Learn about hysterectomy procedures and options available for women. There are many types of hysterectomy surgeries including a total, radical, laparoscopy assisted vaginal hysterectomy, supracervical, and oophorectomy. The type of hysterectomy procedure will depend upon the reason for the procedure.
Latest Medical News
Womens Health RSS