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A cone biopsy is a minor operation to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix to be examined.
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A cone biopsy may be recommended when:
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- you have had a colposcopy which appears normal but your Pap smear results repeatedly show abnormal cells. A colposcopy (see Colposcopy fact sheet) is an examination which allows the doctor to look closely at the cervix with an instrument called a colposcope. The colposcope provides a magnified view of the cervix. Sometimes though, if the cells are deep inside the cervix, the doctor won’t see them.
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- the Pap smear or biopsy has shown abnormal glandular cells, which are the cells deep inside the cervix
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- the specialist is concerned that the abnormal cells may have formed a very early cancer.
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As well as helping to make an accurate diagnosis, the cone biopsy is often an effective treatment.
The tissue removed during the cone biopsy will be examined carefully to confirm the diagnosis and to check if the abnormal cells have been removed.
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The day of your operation
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This is a day surgery procedure, which means you will be admitted and discharged on the same day. It is important that someone collects you from hospital and takes you home.
On the day you are admitted you will have a chance to talk with the specialist about the operation. It may help to make a list beforehand of any questions you want to ask.
You will be given a general anaesthetic which will put you to sleep. When the anaesthetic has worn off you may experience some pain that feels like period pain or cramping.
If you are uncomfortable or worried about anything tell the nurses – they are there to help you.
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After a cone biopsy
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After a cone biopsy, it is best to take a couple of days off work and get help from family or friends so you can rest. For the following week you will need to avoid too much physical activity, particularly any lifting.
You can expect some bleeding and pinkish discharge. If it becomes heavier than a period you should contact your local doctor or the hospital’s emergency department. You should not have sexual intercourse for four weeks. We will telephone you with the results from your biopsy in approximately one week.
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Pregnancy after a cone biopsy
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A cone biopsy can weaken your cervix which may cause problems during pregnancy. If, after a cone biopsy, you become pregnant let the doctor or midwife know. You will need to have special check-ups during your pregnancy.
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For more information
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Dysplasia Clinic Nurse
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Royal Women's Hospital
Level 1 South, Women's Health Clinics
Cnr Grattan St and Flemington Rd
Parkville
Tel: (03) 8345 3548
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Emergency Care Department
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Royal Women's Hospital
Flemington Rd entrance
Parkville
Tel: (03) 8345 3636
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Disclaimer
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The Royal Women’s Hospital does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided in this fact sheet or incorporated into it by reference. We provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.
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Published Oct 2008. Last updated April 2009
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