Why is this procedure done?
Cervical conization is a procedure that your doctor uses if there are problems with your cervix. The doctor can look for and treat long-term swelling and abnormal cells and may also be used to prevent cancer of the cervix. Your abnormal cells may have been found on a routine Pap smear. ‚
What will the results be?
The results will help your doctor learn about the kind of problem you have with your cervix. Together you can make a plan for more care. Getting rid of unhealthy tissue in the cervix may lower the chance of getting cancer. You may need more testing. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some examples are Coumadin, ibuprofen, Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about all of your drugs.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the hospital. Do not wear makeup and jewelry.
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What happens during the procedure?
You will be lying on your back with your feet in foot holders. You will be given a drug to make you sleepy. The drugs will also help you stay pain free. Your doctor will use a special tool to keep your vagina open for the procedure. Your bladder may be drained with a small tube once you are asleep. The doctor will take a small sample of tissue from your cervix. The sample is sent to the lab to be looked at. Stitches that do not have to be taken out are used to close the wound. The procedure takes less than 1 hour. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
Your doctor may give you drugs for pain. You may rest for a few hours. After that, you will be able to go home. The lab will send test results to your doctor most often within a week after your procedure. ‚
Recovery may take up to 6 weeks. Packing may sometimes be placed in the vagina during surgery and should not be removed. The doctor will tell you if there is packing and what you need to know about taking care of the packing. ‚
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says you need to do.
- Do not lift heavy objects.
- You will have some vaginal discharge. Use sanitary pads. Ask your doctor before using tampons.
- It is OK to shower. Talk to your doctor before you take a bath, go swimming, or use a hot tub. Do not use douches.
- Ask your doctor when you can safely have sex again.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep your visits. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Do not smoke. Wound healing will be much better if you do not smoke.
- Follow-up Pap smears are important. Follow what your doctor tells you about having these tests.
What problems could happen?
- Vaginal bleeding, cramps, or watery discharge
- Problems passing urine and moving your bowels which often go away in a few days.
- Infection
- Painful menstrual period
- More chance of premature birth
- Problems getting pregnant
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Signs of infection such as vaginal discharge suddenly becomes bright red or increases or has a foul smell, fever of 100.4 ‚ °F (38 ‚ °C) or higher.
- Bleeding becomes heavy. You are soaking a pad in an hour.
Where can I learn more?
National Cancer Institute ‚
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/understandingcervicalchanges/page12 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚