Cone Biopsy (The James)

Cone Biopsy (The James)

 

A cone biopsy, also known as a conization, is a quick outpatient surgery where a cone-shaped piece of tissue is removed from the cervix to identify and treat a problem in the cervix. Your healthcare provider may do a cone biopsy if 1 or more Pap tests and a colposcopy (microscope) exam showed abnormal cells on your cervix. A cold knife cone biopsy uses a surgical scalpel to remove the tissue and is performed in the operating room. The surgery takes less than an hour and you will be able to go home that same day.

 

How to prepare for surgery:

  • Do not wear any jewelry, body piercings or acrylic nails the day of your surgery.
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before surgery. This includes no chewing gum or mints the morning of surgery.
  • You will need to have a responsible adult drive you home after your procedure. If you take a cab, bus, or medical transportation service home after the procedure, an adult, other than the driver, needs to ride with you for your safety.
  • Be sure to arrive at the hospital early so you have time to sign in and get ready for the procedure.

 

What to expect during the surgery:

You will receive anesthesia before your biopsy to keep you comfortable. You will be asleep during surgery and you will be monitored throughout the procedure.
  • Your surgeon will place a thin metal instrument (speculum) into the vagina to allow them to see the cervix.
  • A cone-shaped piece of tissue is then removed from the opening of the cervix up into the canal.
  • A solution will be applied to the cervix to help stop any bleeding.
  • The removed tissue is sent to the lab and looked at to assure that the abnormal cells have been removed from the cervix. The tissue that grows back is usually normal and may take up to 4 to 6 weeks to regrow.

 

What to expect after a cone biopsy:

After the surgery has been done, you will rest in the recovery area until you are awake and ready to go home. An adult friend or family member will need to drive you home.

  • Plan to rest at home for a day or two after your surgery.
  • You may have some pink to bloody vaginal discharge and mild cramping for a few days after surgery. Use sanitary pads if needed. 
  • You may have a mustard brown vaginal discharge for a few days after the procedure from the solution used to control bleeding during the surgery.
  • Do not put anything in your vagina for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery or as directed by your doctor, until the cervix is healed. This may injure the healing tissue.
    • Do not use tampons, do not have sexual intercourse, or do not douche.
  • For 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, do not soak in water (such as swimming pools, hot tubs, or baths). Showers are okay.
  • Prescription pain medicine is generally not required. Over the counter pain relievers may be used if needed.

 

When to call your healthcare provider:

Call the Gynecologic Oncology office during office hours at 614-293-3873 or after hours at 614-293-8000 if you develop any of the following:

  • Heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking a pad in 1 hour), with or without blood clots
  • Chills or fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher
  • Vaginal discharge that smells bad
  • Pain that increases over time

 

Getting your results:

  • Your healthcare provider will talk with you about your results at your scheduled follow-up appointment a b o u t 2 to 4 weeks after your surgery. You will be given a plan of care for any further cervical cancer evaluation, screening, and follow-up.

 

 

© March 7, 2022. The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.

This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or health care team if you have any questions about your care.