Medically Reviewed by Michael R. Hoffman, MD

When a woman’s Gynecologist tells her that her Cervical Screening Pap Test is abnormal, the GYN may suggest another Pap or recommend a Cone Biopsy.

“The cone biopsy, also called conization, involves removing a small piece of tissues from the cervix,” says McLeod Gynecologist Michael Hoffman, MD. “As the term describes, a cone-shaped piece of tissue is sent to the lab for examination to determine if the cells show signs of disease. Abnormal cells may appear on the surface or in the cervix.  If the cone biopsy removes all the abnormal tissue, no other treatment may be needed. However, left untreated, the abnormal cells might develop into cervical cancer.”

REMOVING THE TISSUE

The cone biopsy usually requires a general anesthetic and a short hospital stay. Often, you can go home the next day.

Several options exist for removing the biopsy.  Most common techniques include the so-called cold knife cone biopsy using a scalpel, a laser knife or the Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP).

AFTER THE CONE BIOPSY

For a few days to a week, you may have some discomfort or cramping. Research shows that a cone biopsy won’t hurt a woman’s chances of getting pregnant, but may increase the possibility of a premature birth.

RESULTS OF THE BIOPSY

• “Normal” indicates that no pre-cancerous or cancerous tissue was found.
• “Mild Dysplasia” reflects the least serious cervical pre-cancer condition because not much of the tissue looks abnormal.
• “Moderate Dysplasia” signifies more abnormal tissue is present.
• “Severe Dysplasia” designates a situation with more abnormal tissue, some of which may be cancerous.

At this point, your Gynecologist may recommend other tests and, depending on the outcome of those tests, you may be referred to a cancer specialist.

ACTION YOU CAN TAKE

1)    See your Gyn for your regularly scheduled Pap Test

…OR…

2)     If you experience troubling symptoms, see your Gyn. Don’t panic. It may be a less critical problem, which can be treated with antibiotics and other medications.

Find a Gynecologist near you.

Sources Include: McLeod Health, National Institutes of Health, American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Cancer Research UK, American Cancer Society.