Gynecology

Abnormal Pap Smears

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Treatment

There are a number of ways to remove the abnormal cells created by dysplasia. They include:

• Loop excision uses a fine wire loop with electrical energy flowing through it to remove the abnormal area of the cervix. The removed tissue is sent to the laboratory for examination.

• Cone biopsy is an outpatient surgical procedure in which a cone-shaped section of the cervix is removed using a scalpel. The cone of tissue is then sent to the laboratory for examination.

• Laser therapy uses a tiny beam of light to vaporize abnormal cells. The laser is directed through a colposcope so that the area and depth of treatment can be controlled precisely.

• Cryotherapy uses a probe to cool the cervix to sub-zero temperatures. The cells damaged by freezing are shed over the next month in a heavy watery discharge.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated February 28, 2008