Cervical biopsy is a surgical procedure to remove a small amount of tissue from the cervix to test for cancerous or precancerous cells. There are three types of procedures: punch, cone, and endocervical curettage. Complications include infections and bleeding.
Cervical biopsy is a surgical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the cervix. This test is completed to collect a tissue sample and test for cancerous or precancerous cells. The cervix is the channel between the uterus and the vagina. A biopsy is the actual process of removing sample tissue from the patient.
There are three types of cervical biopsy procedures: punch, cone, and endocervical curettage (ECC). All three must be performed by a board-certified physician, but can be completed in a doctor’s office or in a hospital outpatient setting. If necessary, a local anesthetic can be used.
A punch biopsy uses a small tool that pinches tissue and removes a round sample. It is quite common to collect two or three samples from different areas of the cervix when using this type of biopsy, as the sample is very localized. The cone biopsy uses a laser to remove a complete layer of tissue from the surface of the cervix. The entire cervix is sampled with this technique, providing enough material to test for any cancerous or precancerous cells.
In an endocervical curettage process, the curette is inserted into the cervix and is used to scrape the lining of the endocervical canal. This area is within the cervix and is not available for a visual inspection. The curette is a narrow instrument used to scrape and collect tissue samples.
The purpose of a cervical biopsy is to detect cancer or precancerous lesions, polyps, or genital warts. This test is usually done after a pelvic exam or pap smear, where abnormal cells are found. A pelvic exam or pap smear is a standard medical exam completed every one to three years to identify cancer or changes to the reproductive system.
Any cells that have an abnormal shape are considered precancerous. This term is used to describe cells that are not yet cancerous, but are not normal in shape and size. Cancer is the growth and development of cells that are not the correct size and shape. Abnormal cell development is quite common, but these cells usually die very quickly. Abnormal cells that are able to sustain themselves and multiply are considered cancerous cells.
A cervical biopsy is a nerve-wracking procedure. Possible complications of this surgery include infections and bleeding. If you are pregnant or might become pregnant, tell your doctor, as this affects the type of cervical biopsy that can be done.
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