LEEP
Also written as: LEEP — loop electrosurgical excision procedure
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure, a treatment for abnormal cervical cells using an electrified wire loop.
Full Definition
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is an outpatient treatment for cervical dysplasia that uses a thin, electrified wire loop to remove abnormal tissue from the cervix. The procedure serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, as the removed tissue can be examined pathologically while treating the abnormal cells. LEEP is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes about 10-20 minutes. It is commonly used to treat high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and early-stage cervical cancer. Recovery usually involves avoiding tampons, douching, and sexual intercourse for several weeks.
Usage
Usage note: LLETZ (large loop excision of the transformation zone) is the equivalent British term.
In Context
- "LEEP was performed to treat the patient's high-grade cervical dysplasia." — Operative report
- "The LEEP specimen showed clear margins with no residual dysplastic tissue." — Pathology report