What is Conization?

It is the name given to the tissue removal procedure of different sizes in the cervix, which is performed in the precursor lesions of cervical cancer, i.e. before cancer develops. If the removal procedure is performed superficially, before the tissue depth exceeds 1-2 mm, and when electrocautery is used, it is called LEEP (LOOP ELECTROSURGICAL EXCISION PROCEDURE) or LLETZ (LARGE LOOP EXCISION OF TRANSFORMATION ZONE). If the depth of the removed tissue is more than 1-2 mm, it is called superficial conization, and if the depth of the removed tissue is deeper, as in postmenopausal women, it is called deep conization. The depth of the removed tissue should be low in women of reproductive age and high in postmenopausal women. Whether the conization procedure is LEEP or superficial or deep conization, the base of the removed tissue should include the entire transformation area of ​​the epithelium (membrane) in the cervix. In women of reproductive age, if they do not have children yet or have not completed their number of children, caution should be exercised as the depth of the tissue removed during conization may cause cervical insufficiency if it is not measured. In addition, improper conization also reduces the potential for pregnancy.