A gentle and effective method for diagnosing and treating cervical changes
Early detection of precancerous changes in the cervix reduces the risk of dying from cervical cancer by about 90%.
In the event that premalignant or malignant changes are detected by gynecological examination and Pap smear, there are several different techniques that can be used to remove such changes in order to prevent the development of the disease.
One of the best is LLETZ (eng. Large Loop Excision of Transformation Zone) method created as a result of modern technological achievements with numerous advantages over traditional methods.
LLETZ surgery is an effective procedure for removing the transformation zone of the cervix using a low-frequency electrical loop.
The transformation zone is the part of the cervix where premalignant and malignant cervical changes most often develop. This procedure, in addition to diagnostics, is also used in the treatment of premalignant changes (CIN II, III) of the cervix.
It is especially beneficial because it maintains the length of the cervix, which is extremely important for patients who are planning a pregnancy in the future.
In everyday use, “LETZ” refers to the use of an electrical loop, primarily for the removal of the transformation zone, but also for the collection of cervical samples (“LETZ biopsy”) and the removal of a cone-shaped part of the cervix (“LETZ conization”).
It is a sparing procedure that is suitable for women of adolescent and reproductive age, because it allows the removal of abnormal changes in their entirety, and does not leave significant consequences on the woman’s reproductive system.
The tissue is removed superficially, and after the procedure and histopathological findings, it is confirmed that the lesion has been removed completely.
Due to the use of high-frequency current, bleeding is minimal. Due to its sparing character, the method is especially recommended for women who are planning a pregnancy in the future.
LLETZ surgery has many advantages:
The LETZ (Loop Excision of Transformation Zone) technique represents an important step forward in the diagnosis and treatment of precancerous changes in the cervix.
Precision, high efficiency and minimal invasiveness make it the method of choice especially for women who are planning a pregnancy in the future.
Regular gynecological examinations with a Pap smear help in the early detection of abnormalities that require intervention with the LETZ technique, which significantly contributes to the prevention of cervical cancer and the improvement of women’s health.
Before the procedure, our doctor will inform you in detail about the procedure, the reason why it is performed, as well as possible complications.
You will have the opportunity to ask all the questions that bother you and get detailed answers. After talking to your doctor, you give your consent to the procedure by signing an informed consent.
Unlike conization, which is a more extensive procedure and is performed under general anesthesia, LLETZ is most often performed under local anesthesia. It is ideal to do it in the first phase of the cycle, that is, immediately after menstruation.
During LLETZ surgery, an electric loop removes the entire transformation zone or only part of the cervix, depending on the reason for which the procedure is performed.
The LLETZ procedure is minimally uncomfortable, during the procedure it is possible to feel slight discomfort and dull pain resembling mild menstrual cramps.
The tissue removed by LLETZ surgery is sent for histopathological analysis to determine the nature and extent of changes in the cervix. Histopathological analysis allows for a definitive diagnosis and information whether the lesion has been completely removed.
After the procedure, the patient is discharged for home care in 1 to 2 hours.
The advantage of the LLETZ procedure is that it can stop cell changes that can potentially grow into cervical cancer.
LLETZ surgery is successful in more than 9 out of 10 (over 90%) cases, which means that no further treatment is required after the procedure.
Most patients can return to their daily activities the next day after the LLETZ procedure. Over the next week, a slightly slower pace and avoiding great efforts are recommended.
In the first days after LLETZ surgery, the appearance of scanty bleeding (eng. spotting) and mild discomfort. During the first three weeks, it is not recommended to bathe in sitting or lying baths, while showering is allowed.
Your doctor will let you know when you can resume tampons, sexual intercourse, and bathing in the bathtub and pool.
The result of histopathological analysis usually arrives within 10 days, further controls are planned depending on the findings.
Complications after the LLETZ procedure are extremely rare, but they are possible, as with any surgical procedure. They include prolonged and/or heavy bleeding and wound infection in the case of antibiotic therapy.
If you notice the occurrence of severe pain or heavy bleeding during recovery, it is necessary to contact a doctor as soon as possible.
The transformation zone of the cervix is the area where, during reproductive age, cylindrical and multilayered squamous epithelium “collide” on the surface of the cervix. This is the most sensitive part and place where the multiplication of reserve cells occurs and the place where HPV infection occurs.
The protocol for treating CIN abnormalities that may occur in this area has been perfected over time to enable the most effective management of the disease.
Removing abnormal cells without complications is key to reducing the risk of disease progression to cervical cancer. The LLETZ method is a modern solution, a sparing surgical procedure that removes the resulting lesions without damaging the surrounding tissue.
The incision as part of LLETZ surgery does not reach into the depth of the cervix, but the lesion is removed at a depth of 8 to 10 mm. In this way, reproductive function is preserved, which allows pregnancy planning after a successful procedure.
Histological analysis of the removed cells confirms the complete removal of abnormal changes and the success of the procedure.
LLETZ surgery is the best choice for precise removal of abnormal changes , thus stopping the progression of the disease.
The high success rate in the complete removal of abnormal cells, with a low risk of complications, makes LLETZ the best method for treating cervical changes.
Due to its sparing character, the LLETZ method is especially recommended for women who have not yet given birth.
Our main goal at the LF Polyclinic is to improve the quality of life and health of our clients by providing them with a top-notch health service. That is why we have gathered a team of top experts, specialists and subspecialists who are the backbone of our multidisciplinary centers and specialist clinics.
The Gynecology Clinic of the Lohuis Filipović Polyclinic provides medical care using the most modern methods of diagnosis and treatment of women’s intimate health.
Our goal is successful diagnosis, treatment, patient monitoring, and positive long-term results.
In order to maintain the high quality of our medical services, we strive to be always available to our clients.
For a consultation and examination with our expert team, you can contact us by phone at +3851 2444646 or via our online form. Opening hours for orders are Monday to Friday 10:15 a.m. – 6:15 p.m.
We will warmly welcome you in the premises of the LF Medical Polyclinic.
Contact us with confidence and let us come up with the best solutions and answers to all your questions together.
The main goal of LF Polyclinic is to improve the quality of life and health of our clients by providing them with top-notch healthcare services.
