In this Article

• What is LEEP?
• How is a LEEP done?
• How effective is LEEP?
• What are complications of LEEP?
• Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure Index

How effective is LEEP?

LEEP has been shown to be comparable to cryotherapy, cold knife conization (surgical removal of the abnormal area), laser ablation (destruction of the abnormal tissue), and laser conization for the removal of abnormal or precancerous tissues of the cervix. Studies have shown that about 90% of these methods result in a cure (removal of all the affected tissue).

Further treatment is not typically necessary if all of the abnormal area has been removed, although the precancerous changes may develop again (recur) at a later time. Regular follow-up Pap tests are required following LEEP to evaluate for possible recurrence of the cellular abnormalities.

What are complications of LEEP?

Complications occur in about 1% to 2% of women undergoing LEEP and include narrowing (stenosis) of the opening of the cervix, greater than expected amounts of bleeding, or infection or the cervix or uterus.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• 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 papillomavirus), 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.

Read more Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure related articles »

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