LOOP ELECTROSURGICAL EXCISION
PROCEDURE
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a minor outpatient surgical
procedure performed under local anesthesia. It is a diagnostic test that examines
the histology of cervical lesions. Advantages are low cost, high success rate, and
ease of use.
This technique is used for diagnosing and treating cervical dysplasia. An
electric current is passed through a thin wire loop to remove abnormal
cervical tissues. The heated loop seals off blood vessels as it cuts.
The tissue is sent to pathology. Follow-up Pap smears are performed every six
months for two years to ensure that the dysplastic changes do not return.
Long-term risks of LEEP include cervical stenosis and cervical insufficiency.