Cone Biopsy (LLETZ)
This procedure is done when your Pap smear, colposcopy or biopsy has shown abnormal cells on the surface of your cervix. Treatment is usually recommended when there is a risk that the abnormal cells may progress to cancer of the cervix. The risk of developing cancer is small and only occurs if the abnormal areas are left without treatment for long periods of time.
The LLETZ treatment aims to totally remove the abnormal cells from the cervix. A wire loop with an electric current (diathermy) is used to shave off these cells. This leaves a raw area on the cervix which heals very well. Treatments are very safe and if performed appropriately they carry a very low risk ratio. Their likelihood of being successful and turning your smears back to normal is at least 95%. If you need a treatment, indications, risks, and future follow up will be discussed with you in detail.
You may experience some slight “period like” discomfort for a day or so. Initially bleeding varies from slight to as much as a period. You will probably have a vaginal discharge, brown or blood stained and later clear, usually for about three to four weeks.
For the first three to four weeks you should also avoid intercourse, bathing, swimming and heavy exercise in order to promote healing of the cervix and minimize the risk of infection. After the procedure pads rather than tampons should be used.
Certification & Surgical Expertise
Dr. Tranoulis is a double-board certified colposcopist by the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG) and British Society of Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (BSCCP). He completed his training in diagnostic and therapeutic colposcopy according to the curriculum of the British Society of Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (BSCCP) and gained in-depth knowledge of the UK Cervical Screening Program, one of the most successful worldwide. He has extensive experience as a lead colposcopist at several Tertiary Hospitals in Great Britain.