What is the LEEP Process?

 The word LEEP, which you may not have heard before in your life, describes a technique used in the treatment of lesions of the cervix that can turn into malignant diseases. Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure, which is a newer technology than laser, is the abbreviation of LEEP.

 We can translate this sentence into Turkish as Electrosurgery as a ring-shaped subtraction. It is performed to treat the change in the cervix of women with an abnormal condition as a result of LEEP PAP smear and to make a definitive diagnosis. Other abbreviations are also used to describe the process. For example, the process is called LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone) in Britain. Also referred to as LLEC (Large Loop Excision of the Cervix), Loop Cone Biopsy. 

All descriptions describe an operation performed with a very simple surgical instrument, which is powered by electrical energy and consists of a ring-shaped wire.With the help of this tool, the changing area in the cervix is removed quickly, painlessly and effectively. 

How is LEEP Conization Surgery Performed? 

If abnormal cells are seen in the cervical biopsy and it is decided to perform the LEEP conization procedure, this procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The LEEP conization procedure is performed on the gynecological examination table. Since the patient will receive anesthesia, it is healthier to perform the procedure in the operating room environment. 

LEEP conization is a surgical procedure. After the patient is placed on the gynecological table, the cervix is made visible with the vaginal speculum used to examine the vaginal walls and vagina by the obstetrician and gynecologist. Surgical margins are determined by staining the cervix with a special solution. The affected part of the cervix is surgically removed. Since it is extracted in the form of a cone, the process is called Leep conization.The surgically removed part is sent to the pathology laboratory for abnormal cell change control.

 Who is LEEP Applied to?

 Some of the women with abnormalities in the PAP Smear result are suitable candidates for LEEP. The most important advantage is that it provides both diagnosis and treatment in the same session. Unlike other procedures, with LEEP, the tissue is removed without being destroyed, and thus, it is possible to confirm the diagnosis pathologically while providing treatment. 

Another advantage is the removal of the cervical canal, which is the starting point of cervical cancer, with LEEP. Examination of this area is absolutely necessary for a complete and adequate diagnosis. What Can Happen 

After the LEEP Procedure? 

Some problems may occur after the LEEP procedure, but they are generally quite minor and mild. Sometimes there may be cramp-like pains similar to menstrual cramps on the day of the procedure and the next day, but there is usually no pain problem. There may be a dark brown blackish discharge after the procedure.It is recommended to use sanitary pads as the amount of discharge may be variable. In some cases, excessive bleeding may occur even 1-2 weeks after the procedure, in which case the doctor should be contacted. Developing infection after LEEP is a rare condition.