Cervical Biopsy Tissue samples can be obtained by three different methods:
- Cone biopsy or conization: a cone-shaped piece of tissue is removed using a scalpel, laser, electrocautery (heat), or loop electrosurgical excisional device. In this last method the doctor removes tissue with a thin wire loop and a tightly controlled current of electricity. Cone biopsy not only provides a specimen for study under the microscope, but it is also a form of treatment since it may completely remove the cancer from the cervix.
- Endocervical curettage: the doctor uses a small instrument to scrape tissue from the canal of the cervix. This is an area, which can't be seen with colposcopy.
- Punch biopsy: the doctor removes a tiny piece of cervical tissue while looking though the colposcope.
