LASER SURGERY FOR CERVICAL ECTROPION

The illness

Various abnormalities of the uterine cervix such as rupture, ectropion, colposcopically (gynecological microscope) identifiable epithelial abnormalities and cytological changes, require surgery. These conditions may maintain chronic inflammation, presenting with recurrent vaginal discharge or in some cases, without surgical treatment, may become the basis for later development of malignant tumors. Of these abnormalities ectropion is characterized by the endocervical glandular epithelium partially covering the surface of the uterine cervix facing the vagina. Constant mucus secretion causes irritation, and serves as the base for recurrent chronic vaginal infections. Besides constant vaginal discharge, uterine cervical pain and bleeding may disrupt sexual activity. Current knowledge does not link ectropion with the development of malignant tumors, the abnormality is merely an annoyance in everyday life.

Treatment options

In our clinic cervical erosions that do not require histological evaluation are treated with laser surgery. Complete cessation of symptoms may be achieved after postoperative wound healing. The surgery is safe for all age groups. It is practically risk free, which applies to future pregnancies as well.

One day surgery

"One day surgery" means, that patients can leave the outpatient center on their own feet, accompanied by a helper, within 24 hours of surgery (usually after few hours of observation), and continue the healing process in the familiar confines of their own home. "One day surgery" requires strict professional, social, and various other preconditions that are discussed at the stage of the consultation when the need for surgery becomes clear. (I.e.: good general health, absence of serious systemic disease, patient must take responsibility for arrangement of transportation, home care, must have phone to contact the clinic or the surgeon if necessary, etc).

Preparation for surgery

Evaluation by the gynecologist always precedes surgery. This includes pelvic (vaginal) examination as well as screening for cancer. Cancer screening consists of colposcopic exam - the "microscopic examination" of the cervical os - as well as cytological examination of epithelial cells acquired during the procedure. After the exam a decision is made in consultation with the oncologist whether one day surgery is appropriate for treatment of the patient's uterine cervical abnormality. After the necessary laboratory tests and medical exams are done we set up a date for the surgery with the patient over the phone. On the day of surgery the the patient needs to bring study results, everything else will be provided by the clinic.

Laser surgery for cervical ectropion

The surgery does not require any preparation. It is generally painless, therefore anesthesia is not required. However, if needed, we use 1% Lidocaine for local anesthesia. After signing the consent form the patient changes clothes and proceeds to surgery. The surgery is performed with CO2 laser. With the energy of the laser light we vaporize the abnormal cells of the affected area in the necessary depth, without damaging the surrounding tissue. Samples for histology are not taken. This method allows for epithelialization from the wound edges, resulting in fast and scar-free healing.

Possible complications

No doctor can guarantee a complication-free surgery. Complications can arise even following the most carefully performed procedures. Possible early complications following laser surgery like postoperative bleeding and inflammation are treatable. If you experience even the slightest indication of complications (i.e. heavy bright red bleeding, lower abdominal pain, foul smelling vaginal discharge, fever), you can contact your surgeon day or night, who will take the necessary steps to resolve the problem.

Postoperative care

Surgery is commonly followed by 1-2 hours of observation, during which time the vital functions (blood pressure, urine output) stabilize, and patients are able to leave the center on their own feet, with the help of an assistant. The day following surgery, most of our patients can continue their daily routine, taking days off work is not necessary. During the 4 weeks that takes for the cervical os to heal scant vaginal discharge may occur. In some cases, between the 5th-10th postoperative days oozing of blood from the vagina may occur that is lighter than a usual menstrual bleeding. However, this is part of the healing process, and should not be cause for concern.Pain, or other complaints should not be present in uncomplicated cases. For 3-4 weeks following surgery, tub-baths, tampons and sexual activity are not recommended. If no complications arise, we ask our patients to schedule a follow-up exam 3 weeks after surgery.

Fees

Gynecological exam (pelvic exam, colposcopy, cytology): 10.000 HUF > Euro
Surgery in local anesthesia: 50.000 HUF > Euro

50% of the fee is due at the time the operation is scheduled, as a prepayment.
These are estimated charges and may also be affected by the severity of the condition.

Appointments: Monday - Friday, 8 am - 8 pm.
Telephone: + (36 1) 266 7766