Three hundred cases of extensive conization of the cervix: With further report on use of a special electrode

Abstract

1.1. Conization of the endocervix by means of a special electrode to be used with a cutting current, originated by Mortimer Hyams in 1927, marks a distinct advance in the treatment of chronic cervicitis.2.2. Extension of conization to include cases of extensive chronic cervicitis was effected through the use of a special electrode devised in 1932 by the senior author (R. J. C.), and 80 patients thus treated were reported by him in 1935. The durability of this electrode was greatly increased by T. K. Brown in 1934, by substitution in materials used.3.3. Conization of this extensive type should preferably be done in the postmenstrual period so as to allow three weeks for healing before the onset of the following period.4.4. The use of the Sturmdorf suture anteriorly and posteriorly and laterally if necessary, has allowed us to use conization in the more extensive cases of chronic cervicitis where the Sturmdorf operation was formerly the one of choice. It is better to suture any bleeders after conization rather than coagulate them.5.5. Strictures should not occur in conization cases if deep coagulation is avoided. A small rubber tube should be left in the canal for seven days in the more extensive cases.6.6. Postoperative bleeding in conization can practically be eliminated by the proper selection of time for operation and the use of sutures when indicated.7.7. There have been no difficulties encountered in the delivery of patients who had had previous extensive conization.