LEEP

The Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is a minor surgical procedure performed when your Pap smear indicates the presence of abnormal cells on the cervix, and is confirmed by colposcopy. This treatment does not mean you have cancer, but removal of the abnormal cells is necessary. Typically you will be told the cells on your cervix were dysplastic or the cells were found to be “high-grade.”

How It Is Done

Performed under a local anesthetic with lidocaine and epinephrine, a LEEP procedure uses a thin wire loop electrode that quickly removes the affected cervical tissue. This causes little damage to the surrounding tissue, and also cauterizes the blood vessels decreasing the chance of bleeding. The tissue is sent to pathology for final analysis.

How To Prepare

You should notify your physician if you are or may be pregnant. It is advised that you take Ibuprofen (Advil) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) one hour prior to the procedure in case you experience any cramping. It is requested that you do not have intercourse, douche, use vaginal medications, or tampons 24 hours prior to your procedure. Let your physician know all the medications you are currently taking and any allergies or sensitivities that you have. Be sure to mention any blood thinning medications or bleeding disorders you may have.

This procedure cannot be done if you are having your period. If you are only spotting however, the procedure can be done.

Procedure

The LEEP procedure takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Remember, this procedure is performed to remove the abnormal cells from your cervix. It is extremely important for you to have close follow-up pap smears to ensure these cells do not return.