Cervical biopsy

Overview of Treatment

Cervical tissue excision surgery is a medical procedure primarily used for diagnosing or treating abnormal cellular changes in the cervix. This procedure is typically performed by gynecologists or specialized physicians, aiming to remove diseased tissue from the cervix to prevent the development of malignant tumors.

The surgery is mainly categorized into two types: diagnostic excision and therapeutic excision. Diagnostic excision is performed to obtain tissue samples for pathological examination to determine the presence of cancer cells; therapeutic excision is used to remove confirmed cancerous tissue to prevent further progression of the disease.

Types and Mechanisms of Treatment

The main methods of cervical tissue excision are cold knife conization and electrosurgical excision. Cold knife conization involves using a surgical knife to directly remove abnormal tissue, while electrosurgical excision uses electric current to burn the lesion, destroying abnormal cells.

The choice between these methods generally depends on the extent and depth of the lesion. Cold knife conization is suitable for superficial or small lesions, whereas electrosurgical excision is more appropriate for deeper or extensive lesions. The common goal of these methods is to remove diseased tissue and prevent the spread and metastasis of cancer cells.

Indications

Cervical tissue excision is mainly indicated in the following situations:

• Abnormal cervical cytology results, such as high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL)
• Abnormal areas detected during colposcopic examination
• Early cervical cancer or carcinoma in situ

Usage and Dosage

Cervical tissue excision is usually performed under local or general anesthesia. During the procedure, the physician uses specific instruments to remove the diseased tissue, which is then sent for pathological examination.

Postoperative care typically involves resting for several hours, avoiding vigorous activities and sexual intercourse to prevent bleeding or infection. The doctor will provide postoperative care instructions and follow-up arrangements based on the severity of the condition.

Benefits and Advantages

The main advantages of cervical tissue excision are its effectiveness in diagnosing and treating precancerous lesions and early-stage cancer of the cervix, thereby reducing the incidence of malignant tumors.

• Early detection and treatment of abnormal cells, reducing cancer risk
• Minimally invasive with short recovery time
• Suitable for various cervical abnormalities

Risks and Side Effects

Like other surgical procedures, cervical tissue excision may have some side effects or risks. Common side effects include:

• Bleeding or infection at the surgical site
• Cervical scarring, which may affect future pregnancies
• Temporary pain or discomfort

Precautions and Contraindications

Before undergoing cervical tissue excision, patients should pay attention to the following:

• Avoid performing the procedure during menstruation to prevent affecting the outcome
• Discontinue anticoagulant medications prior to surgery to reduce bleeding risk
• Follow the doctor’s advice for postoperative care and follow-up

Interactions with Other Treatments

Cervical tissue excision may interact with other treatments such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Therefore, patients should inform their doctor of any medications they are taking or other treatments they are undergoing before the procedure for comprehensive assessment and planning.

Effectiveness and Evidence

Extensive clinical studies confirm that cervical tissue excision is highly effective and accurate in diagnosing and treating cervical abnormalities. Research shows that early intervention with this procedure can significantly reduce the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer.

Alternatives

If patients are not suitable candidates for cervical tissue excision, doctors may recommend alternative options such as:

• Radiotherapy
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the recovery period after a cervical biopsy before returning to normal work and daily activities?

Generally, most people can resume normal work and daily activities within a few days after a cervical biopsy. However, it is recommended to avoid vigorous exercise, swimming, or using hot tubs within 24 hours after the procedure to prevent infection. Doctors usually advise patients to rest for 1-2 days after the biopsy to ensure full recovery.

What preparations are needed before a cervical biopsy?

To ensure accuracy and safety during the cervical biopsy, patients should prepare as follows: avoid sexual intercourse for 14 days prior to the procedure; do not use vaginal medications or perform vaginal douching within 24 hours before the examination; and wear loose clothing on the day of the procedure for ease of access. If there are special circumstances, consult with your doctor in advance.

What are the possible side effects or discomforts after a cervical biopsy?

Cervical biopsy is a relatively safe procedure, but some patients may experience mild side effects. Common symptoms include mild abdominal pain, slight bleeding or spotting, which usually resolve within a few days. If severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or fever occurs, seek medical attention immediately.

How long does it take to get the results of a cervical biopsy?

The results of a cervical biopsy typically take 1-2 weeks. The tissue samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the doctor will provide a diagnosis and recommendations based on the findings. Patients should return to the hospital within the specified time to receive their report and discuss further treatment options with their doctor.

How accurate is a cervical biopsy?

Cervical biopsy is a highly accurate diagnostic method capable of effectively identifying abnormal cellular changes in the cervix. However, no medical test is completely free of errors. To ensure accuracy, patients should communicate thoroughly with their doctor before the procedure and follow all preparation instructions. If there are any questions, consult your doctor promptly.