Analyses, examinations, procedures

Cervical conization is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia.
If the procedure is done under general anesthesia, you should refrain from eating or drinking for at least 6 hours on the day of the surgery. You should also avoid smoking or chewing gum to prevent vomiting and the aspiration of acidic stomach contents into the lungs.
Electrocautery or a scalpel is used to remove the damaged area of the cervix. Bleeding from the remaining surface of the cervix is controlled by diathermy coagulation (cauterization) or sutures, and if necessary, a vaginal tampon may be inserted.
The removed portion of the cervix is sent for histological examination, and the results are provided to the treating physician within 2 weeks. The histological examination helps to determine the extent and nature of cellular changes.
After the operation, you will stay under observation in the day surgery department for a few hours. Once you have recovered from anesthesia and the intravenous cannula has been removed, you may leave the clinic.
If general anesthesia is used, you should not drive a car or perform any other tasks requiring quick reflexes on the same day because the anesthetic drugs used may impair reaction time.

Bleeding from the cervical wound (1 in 10 cases). The risk is higher during the first 24 hours after the procedure and when the covering crusts are removed approximately 2 weeks after the procedure. Bleeding may require repeated suturing or diathermy coagulation. If electrocautery is used during the surgery, there is a risk of skin damage in the area of the electrode. Ulceration may also occur on the vaginal mucosa and labia due to electrical current.
If a large tissue segment is removed, cervical insufficiency may occur in subsequent pregnancies following conization. The risk of spontaneous miscarriage and preterm birth increases. Cervical insufficiency during pregnancy can be corrected by placing a supportive suture on the cervix.
Less frequently, cervical or uterine inflammation may occur.
Extremely rarely, neighboring organs near the cervix may be injured.
Complications related to anesthesia are primarily associated with individual sensitivity to medications.

The cervix will heal within five weeks after conization. During this period, there may be slight bleeding and discharge with an unpleasant odor. To aid in the healing process, please follow the guidelines below:
For five weeks, abstain from sexual intercourse, bathing, and swimming, as these activities may cause bleeding or infection.
Avoid physical exertion and sports for three weeks.
For 4-6 weeks, it is not recommended to use vaginal tampons (even during menstruation) or vaginal balls.
Occasionally, mild lower abdominal pain may occur after conization. Some patients may experience dull lower abdominal pain on the first day after conization.