CERVIX, ELECTROCAUTERIZATION OF

General Information

DEFINITION--Destruction of abnormal (infected or damaged) cells in the cervix, in the lower third of the uterus. An instrument called an electrocautery uses electric current to destroy the abnormal tissue.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Cervix; vagina (as route for surgery).

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Presence of abnormal cells in the cervix.
• Inflammation or infection of the cervix.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH--None expected.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Obstetrician-gynecologist, general surgeon or family doctor.

WHERE PERFORMED--Doctor's office or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Pap smear; vaginal-discharge study.
• After surgery: Vaginal-discharge study; Pap smear in about 2 months.

ANESTHESIA--Usually none.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• A speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold it open and to bring the cervix into view.
• An electrocautery is inserted into the cervix. The flow of electric current is applied to destroy abnormal cells.
• The instruments are removed. The procedure should be painless. Discomfort after surgery will vary from one person to the next, but any discomfort should be minor.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Surgical-wound infection.
• Inadvertent damage to normal vaginal tissue.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--None

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Healing requires up to 2 months. During this time, you will have a frequent, watery vaginal discharge. Allow about 6 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

† Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from nylon, polyester, silk or other non--

ventilating materials.

• Wear a sanitary pad to protect clothing. Avoid tampons--they may lead to infection. > Bathe or shower as usual. Use non-perfumed soap. > Do not douche unless your doctor prescribes it.

† You may use non--

prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

• Your doctor may prescribe: Pain relievers. Don't take prescription pain medication longer than 4 to 7 days. Use only as much as you need. Vaginal creams or medicated douches. Antibiotics to fight infection.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Delay sexual relations until your doctor determines that healing is complete.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

† Vaginal discharge increases or begins to have an unpleasant odor.

• You experience pain that simple pain medication does not relieve quickly.
• Unusual vaginal swelling or bleeding develops.
• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.