Conization
The definitive treatment for microinvasive cervical cancer, cervical conization involves the removal of the entire transformation zone and endocervical canal. The procedure may also be used to diagnose cervical disorders identified by an abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) test, in which case it may be called a cone biopsy. Conization has largely been replaced by colposcopy for diagnostic purposes.
Procedure
After the patient has received a general or local anesthetic, the surgeon uses carbon dioxide or a large hot loop, or a scalpel or laser to cut a circular incision around the external os of the cervix. He then removes a cone-shaped piece of tissue, takes biopsies at the apex of the cone, and sutures the cervix. He may conclude by performing a dilatation and curettage.
Complications
Short-term complications include uterine perforation, heavy bleeding, and infection. Long-term complications include cervical stenosis, infertility, decreased cervical mucus, and premature labor due to cervical incompetence in future pregnancies.
Key nursing diagnoses and patient outcomes
Fear related to potential for future complications, such as infertility or premature labor, caused by cervical conization. Based on this nursing diagnosis, you’ll establish these patient outcomes. The patient will:
express her fears about the effect of conization on future fertility and pregnancy
use available support systems to help her cope with her fears
Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
Full access? Get Clinical Tree
