What Is LEEP (LLETZ)?
Treatment of Cervical Lesions

What Is LEEP?

LEEP is made up of the initials of the English words Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure. It is the procedure of removing the cervix in a loop shape with the help of electrocautery.

In the United Kingdom and some European countries, the term LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone) is used for the same procedure. It is also popularly known as hot conization.

TOPICS

Why Is LEEP Done?

In people carrying the HPV virus, cellular changes can occur in the cervix over time. These changes are detected with a smear test or colposcopy.

Especially in precancerous lesions such as CIN 2 and CIN 3, the LEEP procedure is applied both for a broad examination and for the treatment of the risky tissue.

How Is LEEP Performed?

The procedure is carried out with a thin, loop-shaped wire electrode attached to the tip of an electrocautery device. A round piece including the transformation zone is removed from the cervix.

The removed tissue is always sent for pathological examination. A follow-up and treatment plan is determined according to the pathology result.

The Advantages of the LEEP Procedure

• Because it cuts while burning, the likelihood of bleeding is very low
• If bleeding occurs, it is easily controlled with the same device
• It provides both diagnosis and treatment
• It can be applied under outpatient (office) conditions
• The procedure time is short (usually 10–15 minutes)

Is LEEP Painful?

The LEEP procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia and is painless. A mild pelvic pressure may be felt during the procedure.

If the patient is anxious or has difficulty with the gynaecological examination, the procedure can also be done under general anaesthesia.

The Process After LEEP

• Light spotting-type bleeding may occur
• Sexual abstinence for 2–4 weeks is recommended
• A vaginal tampon should not be used
• The follow-up examination should not be neglected

The LEEP procedure is a safe and effective method that provides both diagnosis and treatment in the management of precancerous lesions.