A colposcopy is performed when a woman has had abnormal smears. Smears are advised in all women in New Zealand with the aim of preventing cervical cancer.
Colposcopy
Colposcopy
A colposcopy is performed when a woman has had abnormal smears. Smears are advised in all women in New Zealand with the aim of preventing cervical cancer.
Overview
A speculum is placed in the vagina, and the cervix visualised using a colposcope. This gives the gynaecologist a magnified view of the cervix.
The cervix is then coated with an acetic acid and/or iodine solution to highlight any potential abnormal areas. A targeted biopsy is taken and sent the labaratory for analysis.
Sometimes no further treatment is required. Some woman will require a large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ), which is where the abnormal area of the cervix is removed. This tissue generally measures 5-10mm in size.
A LLETZ is performed as a separate procedure, normally under local anaesthetic, but occasionally under general anaesthetic.
A speculum is placed in the vagina, and the cervix visualised using a colposcope. This gives the gynaecologist a magnified view of the cervix.
The cervix is then coated with an acetic acid and/or iodine solution to highlight any potential abnormal areas. A targeted biopsy is taken and sent the labaratory for analysis.
Sometimes no further treatment is required. Some woman will require a large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ), which is where the abnormal area of the cervix is removed. This tissue generally measures 5-10mm in size.
A LLETZ is performed as a separate procedure, normally under local anaesthetic, but occasionally under general anaesthetic.
Related Conditions & Treatments
Related Conditions & Treatments
Teamwork
We all have a variety of expert skills and clinical knowledge – we work together and with our patients to achieve their treatment goals.
Up-to-date technology
We are up-to-date in terms of technology and modern methods of investigation and treatment, and continue to maintain this level of advanced service.
Minimal approach
We have the ability and expertise to manage surgical procedures using minimal access approaches. This includes using keyhole surgery wherever possible.