Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP)

+ - Definition Click to collapse

Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) uses a thin wire loop to precisely cut out areas of the cervix. The cervix is a neck-like structure that connects the vagina and uterus. LEEP is done to remove abnormal cervical cells.

+ - Reasons for Procedure Click to collapse

LEEP is often done after abnormal cells have been found on the cervix. These abnormal cells are often found on a Pap test . If the cells found on a Pap test show cervical dysplasia (abnormal cells) or cancer cells, a LEEP may be done.

+ - Possible Complications Click to collapse

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

Bleeding
Abdominal cramping
Infection
Future pregnancy problems (small increased risk of premature births and having a low birth weight baby)
Narrowing of the cervix (very rare)
Incomplete removal of the abnormal tissue
Accidental cutting or burning of normal tissue

Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications such as:

Smoking
Drinking
Chronic disease such as diabetes or obesity

The following may also increase the risk of complications:

Menstruation at the time of the procedure—It is best to have LEEP done when you do not have your period.
History of pelvic inflammatory disease
Inflammation of the cervix
Pregnancy or possible pregnancy

+ - What to Expect Click to collapse

Prior to Procedure

Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure.The day of the procedure:

If your doctor will be giving you a sedative, arrange for someone to drive you home from the clinic.
If directed by your doctor, take a pain reliever right before the LEEP.
Bring sanitary napkins to use after the procedure.

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is often used for a LEEP. This will keep you from feeling pain during the procedure. You will be awake during the procedure. The anesthesia may be applied with a lotion or injected into the area.

Description of the Procedure

You will lie on your back on a table with your feet up in footrests. The doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina. This tool will separate the vaginal walls. This will allow the doctor to see the cervix. Anesthesia will be applied to the cervix to numb the area.The doctor will then apply a solution to the cervical area. The solution will show the abnormal area that needs to be removed. The doctor will insert a thin wire into the vagina toward the cervix. You will hear a vacuum-like noise. You may also hear a humming noise. The thin wire loop is like a surgical knife. The doctor will be able to gently remove the abnormal tissue. You will need to stay very still. The doctor will cauterize the area. This process heats the blood vessels to stop bleeding. A paste may also be applied to stop bleeding.

How Long Will It Take?

LEEP only takes a few minutes.

How Much Will It Hurt?

You may feel cramping during LEEP. You should not feel any sharp pain.

Post-procedure Care

At the Care Center

Your blood pressure and heart rate will be checked.During your stay, the care center staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection such as:

Washing their hands
Wearing gloves or masks
Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chances of infection such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding visitors and healthcare providers to do the same
Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks
Not allowing others to touch your incisions

At Home

After the procedure, you may have:

Dark brown-black vaginal discharge for several days
Mild cramping
Watery pink discharge

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

Rest when you get home.
Frequently change the sanitary pad.
Take pain medicine as directed.
It will take a few weeks for your cervix to heal. For four weeks:
- Do not use tampons or douches.
- Refrain from sexual intercourse.
- Do not do any heavy lifting.
- It is okay for you take baths and showers.
If advised by your doctor, have a Pap test and pelvic exam every six months.

+ - Call Your Doctor Click to collapse

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Heavy bleeding (more than your normal period)
Bleeding with clots
Severe abdominal pain
Fever or chills
Unusual odor or discharge

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

+ - Revision Information Click to collapse

Reviewer: Andrea Chisholm, MD
Review Date: 08/2014 -
Update Date: 01/28/2014 -

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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