Cervical Cryosurgery

DEFINITION

Destruction of abnormal (infected or damaged) cells in the cervix (Click Here) by freezing with liquid nitrogen, using an instrument called a cryosurgery probe.

WHY DONE?

USUALLY PERFORMED

In Gynecologist's office or outpatient surgical facility, without anaethesia.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

  • A speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold it open and view the cervix.
  • The cryosurgery probe is held on the affected areas long enough to freeze and destroy abnormal cells.
  • The instruments are removed. The procedure should be painless. Discomfort after surgery may vary person to person but should not cause much distress.

POST-OP

Occasional spotting of blood with watery vaginal discharge

TREATMENT

SELF CARE

  • Wear cotton panties
  • Use a sanitary pad to protect your clothing.

SEXUAL ACTIVITY

No restrictions. Resume sexual relations when healing is complete.

BE ALERT FOR

  • Increasing vaginal discharge or with unpleasant odor.
  • Pain that simple pain medication does not relieve quickly.
  • Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
  • Unusual vaginal swelling or bleeding.