CERVICAL BIOPSY

Cervical biopsy is a method of minimally invasive diagnosis. It involves getting of a small sample of tissue for cytological and histological analysis. With their help the nature of the cells is determined (whether the changes are benign or malignant). A biopsy is prescribed if the PAP test showed a positive result or mucosal changes were detected during colposcopy.

A PAP test is a cytological examination of a smear for the presence of atypical cells characteristic of cancer and a precancerous condition. It is carried out for every woman during a gynecological examination. Colposcopy is an examination of the cervix through an optical device that provides multiple magnification. During the study the doctor can detect changes in the cells of the mucous membrane. For a more accurate diagnosis, confirmation or disproof of the diagnosis, a biopsy and, if necessary, other studies are prescribed. 

WHEN CERVICAL BIOPSY IS PRESCRIBED

The study makes it possible to diagnose oncological diseases and pathologies with a high risk of malignant degeneration at an early stage.

Indications for a cervical biopsy are:

• a positive or ambiguous PAP test result;
• changes in the cervical mucosa detected by colposcopy;
• suspected cancer process;
• dysplasia, leukoplakia of the cervix;
• polyps, fibroids and other diseases.

The doctor may prescribe an examination also in other cases, if there are certain indications. For example, if a high risk of developing cancer takes place. 

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A CERVICAL BIOPSY

A cervical biopsy is conducted after performing a number of other tests, in particular, examination of a smear from the vagina and cervical canal, blood tests, and ultrasound of the pelvic organs. The scope of studies is always individual.

Just 2-3 days before the biopsy it is recommended to refrain from sexual contacts, usage of vaginal suppositories, contraceptives and hygiene products. The study is usually carried out on the 5th-6th day of the menstrual cycle. So the cervical mucosa has time to recover before the next menstruation. 

HOW CERVICAL BIOPSY IS PERFORMED

The cervical biopsy is performed in a day hospital. This is a minimally invasive procedure which, however, requires local or general anesthesia. Conducting a biopsy takes no more than half an hour. Soon after the procedure a patient can leave the clinic.

Tissue sampling is carried out with the help of:

• Scalpel - this is the most traumatic method, which involves cutting a tissue sample with a scalpel;
  
• Scraping - the doctor scrapes the mucous membrane of the cervix with a curette (a special tool);
• radio waves - radio waves help to cut off a part of the epithelial cells quickly and painlessly;
• puncture needle  – the needle has a small diameter and leaves little tissue damage (this is the most attenuated method).

The choice of the biopsy technique depends on the individual characteristics of the woman, the intended diagnosis and the technical equipment of the clinic. 

ADVANTAGES OF PERFORMING A CERVICAL BIOPSY AT THE «OXFORD MEDICAL» CLINIC

In medical centers of the «Oxford Medical» clinic biopsy is carried out only by means of the most permissive and effective methods. The clinics are equipped with medical systems of recent years of production manufactured by the best European brands. Due to this, experienced obstetricians and gynecologists can perform complex diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Advantages of performing a cervical biopsy at the «Oxford Medical» clinic: 

• the procedure is conducted by the doctors with years of hands-on experience;
• usage of modern and safe methods of biopsy sampling;
• performing the procedure under the local or general anesthesia;
• staying in a day hospital in comfortable single or double rooms;
• accuracy of analysis results;
• high informative value of the study with low invasiveness and painlessness.

To make an appointment for a consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist and for a cervical biopsy sampling procedure, call our contact center or write to the chat.