In Office Procedures

Colposcopy is an examination of the cervix though a microscope to identify and biopsy any abnormal cells we may see. The purpose is to diagnose the cause of the abnormal pap smear to help determine if other treatments are indicated. This procedure is done in the office and is similar to the pap smear you have had. It does take a few extra minutes more than a pap smear but does NOT require sedation. Your cervix will be washed with a solution and your doctor will look through a microscope to identify any abnormal cells. If abnormal cells are found, a sample (biopsy) will be taken to send to the lab for further evaluation. This procedure is important to help us identify and remove abnormal cells to prevent them from developing into cervical cancer. You can return to work/home immediately following the procedure with minimal pelvic cramping experienced.

LEEP is a procedure that can be performed in the office to treat abnormal cells found on the colposcopy. It uses a colposcope (microscope) to view the cervix to see the area of dysplasia. The cervix is numbed and the abnormal cells are removed with a thin wire loop carrying a small electric current. You may feel slight tingling or cramping during the procedure. It typically takes about 5 minutes and removed tissue is sent to a lab for testing. The procedure has a greater than 90% success rate to remove all abnormal cells with low risk of complications. Bleeding may occur after the procedure. Some scarring of the cervix may occur but this rarely affects future fertility or causes incompetent cervix leading to premature birth.

Hysteroscopy is a small scope is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. Air or fluid is injected to expand the uterus and to allow the physician to see the inside of the uterus. Tissue samples may be taken. Mild sedation may be used to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Hysteroscopy may be performed in the office or in the OR.

Novasure Endometrial Ablation is a procedure used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding that can be done in the office or the hospital. A small device is inserted into the vagina and cervix that sends radiofrequency waves to the lining of the uterus to destroy the lining resulting in either no menses or reduced menstrual flow. It is not a method of contraception, but should be used in women who have completed child-bearing. Mild sedation is provided to the patient to help relax and reduce discomfort but the patient is conscious during the procedure that takes only a few minutes to complete. Someone should be available to drive the patient to the office and back home following the procedure.

Dilation & Curettage in this procedure the cervix, or opening of the uterus is dilated and instruments are inserted to remove endometrial or uterine tissue. Local anesthesia may be used to minimize discomfort during the procedure. A D&C may be performed in the office or in the OR.

Accordion ContSonohystogram is a diagnostic procedure using  transvaginal ultrasound after sterile saline is infused into the uterus. This procedure gives a better picture of the inside of the uterus, and small lesions can be more easily detected. No sedation is needed, as minimal cramping is experienced during and after the procedure.