LLETZ
(Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone)

What is LLETZ?

LEEP is an electrosurgical excision procedure used to diagnose and treat abnormal or cancerous conditions in the cervix. During the procedure, abnormal cells are removed from the cervix and sent to the lab for testing, to confirm the extent of the cell abnormalities. The procedure also makes sure the entire area of the cervix that contains the abnormal cells is removed.

Who needs LLETZ?

LLETZ may be done when vaginal or cervical issues are found during a pelvic exam. At times, they are done when abnormal cells are found during a pap smear. LEEP is also done when cancer of the cervix or vagina is suspected.

LLETZ may also be used in the diagnosis or treatment of the following conditions:

• Benign growths (polyps)
• Genital warts
• (HPV)- a risk factor for developing cervical cancer

How does the LLETZ work?

Dr Tshikosi injects a local anaesthetic into your cervix, so you remain awake, but the area being treated is numbed. Next, a thin wire loop, through which an electric current is running, is used to remove the area of abnormal cells. At the same time, the cut is sealed. The procedure takes around twenty minutes in total.