Cold Cone biopsy

Alternative names:

biopsy - cone; cervical conization; cone biopsy

Definition:

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 a cervical punch biopsy or colposcopic-directed biopsy.

How the test is performed:

This is a diagnostic surgical procedure, performed in the hospital under general anesthetic. 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 serve as the treatment, as well, if all of the diseased tissue is removed.

How to prepare for the test:

As with any procedure performed under general anesthesia, fasting for 6 to 8 hours is recommended. You must sign an informed consent form. An overnight stay in the hospital may be needed after the procedure (consult the health care provider to see if an overnight stay is anticipated).

How the test will feel:

This is a surgical procedure, performed in the hospital under 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 serve as the treatment, as well, if all of the diseased tissue is removed.

Why the test is performed:

The test is done after results of a cervical biopsy indicate precancerous cells in the area or cervical cancer. A cold knife cone biopsy may also be done if a cervical biopsy did not reveal the cause of an abnormal pap smear.

Update Date: 10/01/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial