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Information for patients - LLETA or Loop Diathermy.
Obstetrics and Gynaecology
An area of abnormal cells has been found on your cervix (neck of the womb). LLETZ, otherwise known as loop diathermy, is carried out to remove and examine these cells more closely.
Firstly a colposcopy will be performed to identify the abnormal area.
The colposcopist will inject a local anaesthetic into your cervix. This means you are awake, but the area that needs treating is numb (you cannot feel it). The injection might sting for a short time and you may be aware of your heart beating faster. This feeling will pass shortly.
A diathermy plate (big sticky pad) is placed on your thigh (or appropriate area) to make sure the electric current we use does not burn you. The diathermy plate does not hurt and is removed once the treatment is finished.
The abnormal cells are removed using a wire loop heated by an electric current. You should not feel any pain, but you may feel some pressure and experience a dull cramp in the lower abdomen similar to period pain.
It is normal to notice a slight burning smell and hear a noise like a soft vacuum cleaner.
Whilst the treatment itself takes just a few minutes, afterwards you will be taken to recovery to rest for 20 minutes, so please allow an hour in total for your appointment.
You are welcome to have someone with you for support.
LLETZ is a simple and safe technique which gives excellent results - it is successful in over 9 in 10 (90%) cases, meaning no further treatment is needed.
Bleeding: There is a small risk of heavy bleeding (for example soaking through a sanitary pad every hour).
Infection: There is a small risk of infection. Symptoms include painful cramps, a high temperature and/or smelly discharge.
Cervical stenosis: There is a very small risk that the opening of the cervix will become narrowed due to scarring. This can cause painful periods, difficulty conceiving or the cervix not to open well during labour. This risk increases if you have been through menopause or have had a LLETZ previously.
Premature birth: There is a small increased risk of late miscarriage or early delivery in future pregnancies.
Burn: There is a very small risk of a burn to the vagina.
You may experience some or none of the following:
If you are concerned that you are bleeding too heavily or have an infection, please contact Greenoaks or your GP during weekday working hours, or Ward B11 out of hours on 01709 424349.
Until all bleeding/discharge has stopped it is recommended to avoid:
Appointments
Colposcopy Secretaries
Telephone 01709 424300
Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm
Health Advice
Greenoaks
Telephone 01709 427641
Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm
Switchboard
Telephone 01709 820000