The cone biopsy (conization) is a type of surgery that involves removing tissue shaped like a cone from the cervix. In your uterus, the cervix is located at the lower end, it opens into your vagina.

Several methods are available to the doctor for removing the tissue. An example is to use a scalpel, which is a surgical knife. There is also the option of using a thin wire loop that is powered by electricity. Alternatively, the doctor can use a laser.

It is possible that you will be asleep during the surgery. However, it is usually performed while you are awake. In either case, you will not feel pain. Doctors remove tissue through the vagina. There will be no visible scars after undergoing a cervical cone biopsy.

A second doctor will examine the tissue under a microscope after surgery. It will be checked for abnormal cells by the doctor.

After surgery, most people go home within one to four hours. In one or two days, you should be able to return to your normal routine. Don’t have sex until your doctor gives you the go-ahead.

During a pelvic exam, abnormalities may be detected that warrant a cervical cone biopsy. In some cases, it may also be done following a Pap test where abnormal cells are found. Cone biopsy may also be recommended if a human papilloma virus (HPV) test is positive. Infection with HPV is a sexually transmitted disease.

Cervical cancer and other less common types of genital cancer can be caused by certain types of HPV. During a colposcopy, a cervical cone biopsy is often performed. It is also known as colposcopy-guided cervical biopsy. The cervical tissues are examined with a colposcopy using an instrument with a special lens.

Cervical cone biopsy may be performed to detect cancer or precancer cells. There are cells that appear abnormal but are not yet cancerous, which are called precancerous cells. There is a possibility that these abnormal cells might be the first sign of a cancer that could develop years in the future.

The cervix is capable of regenerating tissue following a cone biopsy. As much cervical tissue is removed during the procedure, as well as how much remains after the biopsy, determines how much is able to regenerate. In order to allow for cervical cell regeneration, as much healthy tissue as possible should be left behind.

In case there are more cancer cells left behind after a cone biopsy, you may have to repeat it. In reproductive-age women, repeated cervix biopsies carry risks, such as preterm labor, but the OB/GYN must weigh these risks and benefits before repeating the procedure.

For cervical tissue to grow back, it takes four to six weeks. A mild amount of pain is normal, and it can be treated with extra-strength acetaminophen. It is possible that your doctor will prescribe a different pain medication that will also help.

For the first few days and up to the first week, you should rest as much as possible. Housework, lifting heavy loads, and being overly active can all cause you to bleed, so avoid them. In most cases, people are able to return to work within one week of having a cone biopsy. In addition, your cervix needs time to heal without being irritated, this will usually mean between four and six weeks without vaginal sex, douching, tampons, baths, hot tubs, or pools.

After your biopsy, make an appointment with your doctor for about four weeks later. To ensure that your cervix is healed, they will conduct an exam. You might also be approved to resume regular activities depending on the stage of healing.

Dr. Richard Beyerlein offers cervical cone biopsy procedures. Book your next appointment now! For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are located at 10 Coburg Road Suite 100 Eugene, OR 97401. We serve patients from Eugene OR, Lowell OR, Springfield OR, Cottage Grove OR, Coburg OR, Creswell OR, Junction City OR, and surrounding areas.