Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure
(LEEP)
Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr, MD, FACP, FACR
What is LEEP?
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), uses 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 analysis can be obtained. LEEP also is popular because it is inexpensive, simple, and typically has few risks or side effects. LEEP is also known as large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ).
This procedure is used most often for treating mild to moderate dysplasia (abnormal
changes of the cells lining the cervix or precancers) that have been identified
by colposcopy and/or cervical biopsy. In certain situations, severe dysplasia
and noninvasive cancer that are localized and can be removed, may also be treated by LEEP.
How is a LEEP done?
The patient lies on an examining table with the feet
elevated in stirrups (the position used to obtain a Pap smear). A speculum (as used for the Pap test) is inserted to open the vaginal walls. Sometimes a special solution, either vinegar (acetic acid) or iodine,
is applied to the cervix prior to the procedure, which makes the abnormal areas of tissue more recognizable).
The area is numbed using a local anesthetic (cervical block). Oral or intravenous medications
to control pain may also be given. A low-voltage electrical current is delivered via a thin wire that is passed through tissues to remove the abnormal areas of the cervix. A chemical is applied afterwards to prevent bleeding.
Mild pain and cramping that can be relieved by oral
medications may occur for the first few hours following the procedure.
Vaginal
discharge and spotting commonly occur after this procedure for up to a few
weeks. Sexual intercourse and tampons use should be avoided for several weeks to
allow better healing. Douching should also be avoided.
Next: How effective is LEEP? »
- 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.
- Cervical Cancer - Get the facts on cervical cancer causes (HPV or human papilloma virus), symptoms, diagnosis (abnormal Pap smear), prognosis, treatment, research, stages and statistics.
- Colposcopy - Learn about colposcopy, a procedure used to determine and examine the cervical and vaginal area for cervical cancer and other conditions.
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