MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Cold knife cone biopsy

Skip navigation


Medical Encyclopedia
Other encyclopedia topics:	A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9

Cold knife cone biopsy

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test	How the test will feel Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are

Illustrations

Female reproductive anatomy

Cold cone biopsy

Cold cone removal

Alternative names Return to top

Cone biopsy; Biopsy - cone; Cervical conization

Definition Return to top

A cold knife cone biopsy is a procedure to obtain a sample of abnormal tissue from the cervix for further examination. This procedure obtains a larger sample than that obtained by cervical punch biopsy or colposcopy-directed biopsy. An alternative procedure known as LEEP (loop electrocautery excisional procedure) uses electric current instead of a knife to remove the cervical tissue.

How the test is performed Return to top

This is a surgical procedure, performed in the hospital under either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia, to diagnose and treat a precancerous change in the cervix.

A small cone-shaped sample of tissue is removed from the cervix and examined under a microscope for any signs of cancer. This biopsy may also serve as the treatment if all of the diseased tissue is removed.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

As with any procedure performed under anesthesia, fasting for 6 to 8 hours is recommended. You must sign an informed consent form. The procedure is considered a same day procedure in which hospitalization is usually not necessary.

How the test will feel Return to top

After the procedure, there may be some cramping or discomfort for a week or so. Avoid sexual intercourse, douching, and use of tampons for about 4 to 6 weeks. For 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure, you may have heavy, bloody, or a yellow-colored discharge.

Why the test is performed Return to top

The test is done when results of a cervical biopsy indicate precancerous cells in the area or cervical cancer. A cold knife biopsy may also be done if the cervical biopsy has not revealed the cause of an abnormal Pap smear.

Normal Values Return to top

This procedure is only performed if an abnormality in the cells of the cervix is known or suspected.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Most often, abnormal results indicate an area of precancerous or cancerous cells.

What the risks are Return to top

There is a slight risk of extensive bleeding and infection. Cervical scarring may result from the procedure, occasionally causing painful menstrual periods or making it more difficult to evaluate an abnormal Pap smear. This scarring may also make it difficult for a woman to become pregnant. Cold knife cone biopsy may be associated with cervical incompetence, a condition that may result in premature delivery.

Update Date: 4/30/2004

Updated by: Robert L. Debernardo, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.