Leep Surgery Side Effects

"LEEP" stands for "Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure." A Leep procedure is used to treat or diagnose an abnormal pap smear test. If not treated or diagnosed early, abnormal pap tests can lead to cervical cancer. Doctors use a wire loop that is attached to a high-frequency generator for the procedure. It is used like a surgeon's knife to precisely remove abnormal tissue in the cervix. Because the loop is so thin and the surgery so exact, it causes very little damage to the tissue around the affected area. Nevertheless, as with any medical procedure, there are possible side effects.

During the Procedure

• Local anesthesia is used for the procedure. During the injection, there might be some slight cramping, almost like a mild menstrual cramp. It should subside once the anesthetic takes effect. Increased heart rate is also common when a local anesthetic is given. Once the LEEP procedure begins, there might be a dull cramp. There should not be any sharp pains; if there are, immediately tell the doctor. A green paste called Monsel's Solution is applied afterward to help with bleeding.

After the Procedure

• For a few days after the procedure, there will be a dark brown discharge and slight odor caused by the Monsel's Solution. The procedure might also cause some cramping. A physician should be called if there is excessive bleeding or clotting (more than a normal menstrual period), severe cramping, a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit or any pus with the discharge.

  There is a chance patients might have a reaction to the local anesthesia as well.

Risks and Complications

• LEEP risks and complications are uncommon. There could be heavy bleeding, clots, fever and/or infection. There is also a chance the abnormal tissue was not entirely removed. Accidental cutting or burning of normal tissue can happen, usually because the patient has moved during the procedure. A pelvic infection could occur if the patient has intercourse before the cervix has healed.

Post-Procedure Guidelines

• To help avoid side effects, do not do heavy lifting and avoid sexual activity for four weeks. A pain reliever such as Motrin can be taken to ease cramping. Do not douche, use tampons or apply prescription vaginal creams for at least four weeks.

Benefits

• LEEP is a minimally invasive and a relatively painless procedure. It is done in the doctor's office, and patients can resume their normal activities within 24 hours. It is a quick and easy way to remove abnormal tissues that can be reviewed by a pathologist to determine if further treatment is needed.