Cervical biopsy

A cervical biopsy is a minimally invasive diagnostic method. It involves collecting a small tissue sample for cytological and histological analysis. These tests determine the nature of the cells — whether the changes are benign or malignant. A biopsy is prescribed if the Pap test shows a positive result or if changes in the mucous membrane are detected during colposcopy.

The Pap test is a cytological examination of a smear to detect atypical cells, which are characteristic of cancer or precancerous conditions. It is performed for every woman during a gynecological exam. Colposcopy is an examination of the cervix through an optical device that provides multiple magnification. During the procedure, the doctor may detect changes in the mucous membrane cells. To obtain a more accurate diagnosis and confirm or refute it, a biopsy is prescribed, along with additional tests if necessary.

This examination allows for early detection of oncological diseases and conditions with a high risk of malignant transformation.

Indications for a biopsy include:

• a positive or ambiguous Pap test result;

• changes in the cervical mucosa detected during colposcopy;

• suspected cancerous process;

• cervical dysplasia, leukoplakia;

• polyps, fibroids, and other conditions.

The doctor may also prescribe the examination in other cases if there are indications — for example, a high risk of cancer development.

A cervical biopsy for dysplasia and other conditions is performed after a series of preliminary tests, including a smear analysis from the vagina and cervical canal, blood tests, and pelvic ultrasound. The scope of testing is always individualized.

Directly before the biopsy, it is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse, vaginal suppositories, contraceptives, and hygiene products for 2–3 days. The procedure is typically performed on the 5th–6th day of the menstrual cycle to allow the cervical mucosa to heal before the next menstruation.

The biopsy is performed in a day hospital setting. It is a minimally invasive procedure that requires local anesthesia or general anesthesia. The procedure takes no more than 30 minutes. Shortly after the biopsy, the patient can leave the clinic.

The tissue sample is collected using:

• a scalpel — the most traumatic method, involving the cutting of a tissue sample with a scalpel;

• scraping — the doctor scrapes the cervical mucosa with a curette (a special instrument);

• radio wave method — radio waves allow quick and painless excision of a portion of epithelial cells;

• a puncture needle — a needle with a small diameter causes minimal tissue damage (this is the most sparing method).

The choice of biopsy technique depends on the woman’s individual characteristics, the presumed diagnosis, and the clinic’s technical capabilities.

At Oxford Medical centers, biopsies are performed only using the most gentle and effective methods. The clinics are equipped with the latest medical equipment from leading European brands. Thanks to this, experienced obstetrician-gynecologists can perform complex diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including treatment of cervical erosion using the radio wave method.

Advantages of cervical biopsy at Oxford Medical:

• the procedure is performed by doctors with many years of experience;

• only modern and safe methods of sample collection are used;

• the procedure is carried out under local or general anesthesia;

• comfortable single or double rooms in the day hospital;

• high accuracy of test results;

• high informativeness of the study with minimal invasiveness and painlessness.

You can find out the cost of a radio wave cervical biopsy here. However, it is important to keep in mind that the procedure is prescribed for histological, cytological, or other analyses of the tissue sample. Therefore, the final cost of the examination may vary. Your gynecologist will provide more accurate information during the initial consultation. Make an appointment at a convenient time — call us or submit a request on the website.