LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure)

The LEEP procedure is useful for both the diagnosis and treatment of cervical dysplasia. This office procedure has replaced most of the cone biopsy procedures of the past. The cervix is numbed with an anesthetic, and then the cervical biopsy tissue is removed using a thin wire loop. A pathologist looks at the tissue and determines whether or not the margins of the lesion are clear of cervical dysplasia. Following this procedure, a woman can return to most of her regular activities. However, she should avoid tampons, douching and intercourse for one month until the biopsy site has fully healed.

The pathology report results return approximately 7 days after the procedure. It is important that you discuss the results with your provider, and determine an individual plan of treatment. Usually the woman simply needs to return for a followup PAP smear in 6 months to be sure that her PAP has reverted to normal.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in the Gynecology and Infertility Associates web site should be relied upon for medical education purposes only. It is not intended to replace the independent judgment of a health care provider. The appropriateness of a course of treatment for a patient may vary from the medical information provided herein due to individual conditions and/or complications.