Clinical and pathological evaluation of large loop diathermy excision of the transformation zone.

In order to make accurate diagnosis and to carry out treatment of cervical preneoplastic disease, large loop diathermy excision of the transformation zone was performed in 98 patients. The colposcopic assessment was indicated by abnormal smear or history of treatment for preneoplastic changes. The entire transformation zone could be excised in one piece in 90% of cases. Histological examination of the specimens confirmed dysplasia in 89% of patients and in 4 cases invasive cervical disease was revealed. The ectocervical and endocervical excision margins were free of dysplastic epithelium in 68% of cases. Compared to traditional cone biopsy, the new method is cheaper and more simple. Loop diathermy excision of the transformation zone can be performed in local anaesthesia as an out-patient procedure and there is no need for postoperative hospitalization. By reducing the number of general anesthesia, the workload in gynaecological theatres and by eliminating the need for postoperative hospital stay the method substantially contributes to the improvement of the hospital budget.