General Information

Definition. Biopsy means removal of the tissue from the body for microscopic examination, to aid in establishing a more precise diagnosis. Cervical biopsy refers to a biopsy performed on the cervix, the lower third of the uterus (womb).

Purpose of Surgery. (1) To make a certain diagnosis of the cause of a cervix that appears abnormal, no matter what its suspected cause, or (2) to make further tissue examination following suspicious or abnormal results of a Pap smear.

Instruments Used. The physician inserts a speculum into the vagina to widen its cavity and bring the cervix into view. Then he/she uses biopsy forceps, an instrument with a single sharp edge and a spoon-shaped opening in the middle.

Technique. If an abnormal Pap smear indicates the need for a cervical biopsy, your physician might stain the cervical tissue with a special iodine prior to removing tissue with the biopsy forceps. This test, called the Schilling Test, coats the cervix with a thin layer of the staining solution. The most suspcious areas do not hold the stain, so these areas are the most important ones to biopsy. Once the physician sees the cervix clearly, he/she snips off small bits of the suspicious areas, drops them into a preservative solution, and sends them to the pathologist for microscopic examination. You will need neither a general nor a local anesthetic. The removal of tissue from the cervix causes little or no pain.

Important Points in Postoperative Care

Activity. Stay as active as your condition and feeling of well-being allow. You should not be uncomfortable to any significant degree. If you are, you should let your physician know.

Diet. There are no specific restrictions. For an everyday healthy diet, most experts now recommend you limit fat to less than 35% of your total daily calories (restricting amounts of red meats - beef, pork, lamb); limit salt to less than 3 grams per day; and limit refined sugar. Read labels on prepared foods to avoid hidden sources of salt and fat. Make sure your diet consist primarily of poultry, fish and seafood, legumes (such as peas and beans), whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

General Measures. Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from nylon, Dacron, silk, or other nonventilating materials.

• Since you will probably experience a few days of slight staining following this procedure, you should wear a minipad to protect your clothing. Avoidance of use of tampons is wise, because if left in place they may lead to post-operative infection.
• Do not douche unless your physician prescribes it.
• Delay sexual relations for one week following the surgery.
• Tub baths or showers are permitted. Use unperfumed soap.

Medications. Your physician must fit your medicines to your particular needs. Do not take any medicine (not even medicine you buy without prescription) before asking your physician.

Notes

• Avoid cigarette smoking.
• Limit alcohol intake. Avoid completely any mood-altering, mind-altering, stimulant, or sedative drugs.
• Be moderate in your activities. Seek a balanced lifestyle of work, intellectual pursuits, recreation, reflection, and rest.

Call Our Office If:

• Vaginal dischrage begins to have an unpleasant odor or increases in quantity
• You experience discomfort that simple pain medication does not relieve quickly
• Unusual vaginal bleeding or swelling develops
• You develop signs of infection: fever, aching, tireness

 

Disclaimer: The articles and information, while with the best effort to be accurate and up-to-date, may not be. Also, every physician and medical professional holds their own views on certain diagnosis and advice. There truly are no textbook cases. It is always best to consult with your personal physician regarding medical/health related problems. The information is to be used as a general resource and not as a substitute for trained medical advice and/or treatment.