Papsmear / Cervical Cautery

Pap smear or Pap test is an examination tool used to identify cells in the cervix that may develop into cervical cancer. As a routine into this test a small brush or spatula is used by a healthcare provider to gather cervix cells that the laboratory analyses. While the initially test is known as the Pap smear is usually recommended for women starting at the age of 21 and the test is usually repeated after three years or five years when the patient is tested for HPV as part of her risk factors.

Cervical cautery however is a therapy technique that is applied in the removal or destruction of cervical tissue that is abnormal, usually discovered during a Pap smear. This may comprise cryotherapy (freezing the given tissue), laser ablation or electrosurgery area being sealed through application of electrical currents. Cervical cautery is mostly done if there are features of carcinoma in situ or if specific forms of cervical dysplasia are seen.