Gynecologic Procedures

Colposcopy | LEEP | Endometrial Ablation | Endometrial Biopsy | Robotic Surgery | SIS | Essure | Implanon | IUD

 Pre-op Instructions for Gynecologic Surgery

Colposcopy

A screening Pap smear which returns an abnormal result may in some cases prompt the scheduling of a colposcopic exam of the cervix and / or vaginal tissues.

During a colposcopy exam, a speculum will be inserted as it is for a regular gynecological exam. A diluted vinegar solution is placed on the cervix in order to allow a clear view of the cervix. This solution washes away mucus from the cervix and allows any abnormal cells to be more clearly visible during the exam. The cervix is visualized with the use of a colposcope, (a magnifying instrument) placed outside the vagina, allowing the physician a view of possible sources of abnormal cells.

If possible sources of abnormal cells are identified on the cervix or vaginal tissues, small biopsies of these areas may be performed. A small instrument may also be used to sample the tissue of the endocervical canal (the opening in the cervix) in order to ensure that abnormal cells are not found in an area not clearly visible with the colposcope. All samples obtained are then sent to a pathology laboratory and examined by a pathologist.

LEEP

A loop electrosurgical excision procedure, commonly referred to as a LEEP, is one possible course of treatment that may be suggested by a physician to quickly remove areas of abnormal tissue on the cervix.

During the LEEP procedure, a speculum is inserted in order to clearly visualize the cervix. The cervix is numbed with a local anesthetic and a solution is placed on the cervix to highlight areas of abnormal cells. The physician will view the cervix through a colposcope (a magnifying instrument) placed outside the vagina.

A fine wire loop with a special high-frequency electrical current allows the physician to precisely remove the abnormal tissue from the cervix with very little damage to surrounding tissue. Different sizes and shapes of these loops can be used to remove one or more pieces of abnormal tissue. After completion of the tissue removal, a special device may be used to seal blood vessels and/or a medicated solution may be applied to the cervix to reduce bleeding.

The tissue samples taken are sent to a pathology laboratory and examined by a pathologist. The results are then returned to and reviewed by the physician.

Endometrial Ablation

Heavy periods, or menorrhagia, affects about 20% of all women. If a woman is done with childbearing and having problems with heavy periods, she may be a candidate for an endometrial ablation.

An ablation is a treatment applied to the lining of the uterus to help improve heavy periods. There are several different choices available. Our physicians typically use Novasure or Thermachoice, a uterine balloon.

The procedure has routinely been done in the hospital as an outpatient by all physicians in the practice. However, there is also an option of having it done in the office with oral medication and a paracervical block. Our providers will be happy to discuss both options with you.

Endometrial Biopsy

Endometrial biopsy is a procedure in which a tissue sample is taken from the lining of the uterus (endometrium) and is checked under a microscope for any abnormal cells or signs of cancer.
Read more on the Endometrial Biopsy page.

Robotic Surgery

Select Springfield Clinic OB/GYN physicians have been trained to perform surgical procedures with the da Vinci robot. Robotic surgery has provided patients with shorter hospital stays, less pain, less risk of infection, less blood loss, fewer transfusions, less scarring, faster recovery and a quicker return to normal daily activities.
Read more on the Robotic Surgery page.

Saline Sonohysterogram (SIS)

A saline sonohysterogram (SIS) is a special type of sonogram. The purpose of this procedure is to look at the lining inside your uterus and determine how thick it is and whether or not you have a polyp inside or if you have any fibroids in your uterus and where they are in relation to the lining of the uterus.
Read more on the SIS page.

Essure

Essure is a permanent birth control procedure that works with your body to create a natural barrier against pregnancy. This gentle procedure can be performed in a doctor's office in less than 10 minutes.
Read more on the Essure page.

Implanon

Implanon is a form of implantable contraception.

Is IMPLANON® right for me?
Your healthcare provider will help you determine if IMPLANON is right for you. He or she will review the Patient Labeling and Consent Form with you to be sure you understand all of the potential risks and benefits of using IMPLANON. The information contained in this Web site does not take the place of a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider.

Read more at www.implanon.com.

IUD

An IUD is an intrauterine device that is a reversible form of contraception. A small implantable device is placed through the cervix into the uterus during an office exam. The procedure takes only a few minutes. This method provides either 5 or 10 years of contraception depending on the device used.