Needle excision of the transformation zone: A new method for treatment of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia

OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to evaluate a new needle electrode for conization of the cervix that was developed in my department. STUDY DESIGN: This was a prospective study of 58 unselected women with histologically verified cervical intraepithelial neoplasia who underwent conization with the diathermy needle. The operations were performed with local anesthesia as outpatient procedures. Follow-up time was 5 years. RESULTS: All cones were removed in one piece and were of high histologic quality. Mean (+/-SD) operating time, including anesthesia, was 7.9 +/- 2.7 minutes. Mean depth of thermal damage was 0.29 +/- 0.21 mm, and mean blood loss was 12.5 +/- 9.4 mL. No late complications have been noted, and 94.8% of patients have required no further treatment. CONCLUSION: Needle excision of the transformation zone is a simple and effective outpatient procedure that yields a one-piece cone specimen of high quality and carries a success rate of 94.8%.