Surgery
LLETZ
LLETZ removes abnormal cells from the cervix using a heated wire loop, to treat pre-cancerous changes found on screening.
Quick answer
LLETZ: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) uses a thin heated wire loop to remove a small area of the cervix containing abnormal (pre-cancerous) cells. The removed tissue is also examined in the laboratory.
- Why it is done: It is used to treat abnormal cervical cells (CIN) found after a colposcopy, removing them before they could develop into cervical cancer, and to confirm the diagnosis.
- What happens: Usually under local anaesthetic during a colposcopy, the loop removes the affected area of the cervix in a few minutes.
What it is
Large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) uses a thin heated wire loop to remove a small area of the cervix containing abnormal (pre-cancerous) cells. The removed tissue is also examined in the laboratory.
Why it is done
It is used to treat abnormal cervical cells (CIN) found after a colposcopy, removing them before they could develop into cervical cancer, and to confirm the diagnosis.
What happens
Usually under local anaesthetic during a colposcopy, the loop removes the affected area of the cervix in a few minutes. It is an outpatient procedure with no cuts elsewhere.
Recovery
Bleeding and discharge are common for a few weeks. Tampons, sex and swimming are usually avoided for about four weeks to allow healing and reduce infection risk.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include bleeding, infection and, rarely, effects on future pregnancy such as a slightly increased chance of early birth if a large amount is removed. Follow-up screening checks the cells have cleared.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
LLETZ: frequently asked questions
Does LLETZ mean I had cancer?
No. It usually treats pre-cancerous changes to prevent cancer from ever developing. Removing the abnormal cells early is a highly effective preventive step.
Will LLETZ affect future pregnancies?
For most people it does not, but removing a large amount of tissue can slightly raise the chance of early birth. Your colposcopist will discuss this if it applies to you.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists / relevant professional body
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