Cervical Conization - Cone Biopsy

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 provider uses a small spatula and a brush to gently scrape cells from the woman's cervix. These cells are sent to a lab 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 anesthesia in an operating room. General anesthesia 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 anesthesia wears off. She can usually go home a few hours after the procedure. Someone else must drive her home, because the effects of the anesthesia 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 anesthesia. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

Author:David T. Moran, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:01/31/01
Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:07/13/01

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