Alternative Names cervical cone biopsy, cervical conisation
Definition A cone biopsy is a surgical procedure that involves taking a large tissue sample from the cervix. The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus and contains the opening from the uterus to the vagina. The tissue sample is called a biopsy.
Who is a candidate for the procedure? A cone biopsy is used to detect cancer of the cervix or precancerous changes. A cone biopsy is usually done after a woman has abnormal results from a Pap smear that has been done as part of a pelvic examination. A Pap smear is a test in which the doctor uses a small spatula and a brush to gently scrape cells from the woman's cervix. These cells are sent to a laboratory for testing. The Pap smear may show early, abnormal, cancer-like changes in the cervix cells.
How is the procedure performed? A cone biopsy is generally done under general anaesthesia in an operating room. General anaesthesia means medications are used to put a person to sleep during a procedure so that no pain is felt. A cone-shaped piece of tissue is removed from the cervix with a special tool. A pathologist examines the sample under a microscope for abnormal cells that indicate cervical cancer. The procedure often completely removes the diseased tissue.
What happens right after the procedure? The woman stays in the surgery recovery room until the anaesthesia wears off. She can usually go home a few hours after the procedure. Someone else must drive her home, because the effects of the anaesthesia make it unsafe for her to drive until the next day.
What happens later at home? Some light vaginal bleeding and discharge may be normal for up to one week after a cone biopsy. A sanitary pad may be used as needed for bleeding. Sexual intercourse, douching, and tampon use should be avoided for at least one week. This allows the cervix time to heal. There may be slight soreness or discomfort in the vagina for a day or two after the biopsy.
Results from the cone biopsy are usually available within one week. If cancer of the cervix is detected, treatment options include further surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and biological response modifiers such as interferon.
What are the potential complications after the procedure? Complications of a cone biopsy are rare but may include bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anaesthesia. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.
Author: Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
