The cervix is considered the most vulnerable part of the female reproductive system. It is susceptible to many specific diseases, most of which require medical or surgical therapy. The choice of treatment depends on several factors: the nature of the pathology, its location, degree of severity. One of the methods of intervention is argon plasma coagulation. This procedure will be described in more detail in today's article.
The essence of the technique
Argon plasma coagulation of the cervix is a relatively new and completely painless method for stopping gynecological pathologies, which is not accompanied by the development of complications. The essence of this treatment is to expose the affected area to a radio wave, which contains a small gain in the form of an inert gas (argon). The wave penetrates the tissues of the cervix uterus non-contact, due to which the risk of subsequent scarring is reduced to zero. When tissue and electrode interact, a torch is formed. It is an argon plasma stream.
During this treatment, the treated tissue of the cervix is heated. As a result, the coagulation process starts. An argon-enhanced radio wave heats and vaporizes tissues and also sterilizes them. The depth of the flow varies from 0.5 to 3 mm. Its strength and intensity of the torch are selected by a specialist during the preparation of the apparatus for work.
Indications for appointment
The technique of argon plasma coagulation involves the treatment of pathological conditions of the neck of the genital organ. The main indications for her appointment are:
- neoplasms of epithelial origin (for example, condylomas or papillomas);
- myoma;
- leukoplakia;
- ectopia or pseudo-erosion;
- cervicitis, not amenable to drug therapy;
- various mechanical damage.
Using this procedure, pathological neoplasms of a benign etiology can be removed. Usually they are localized in the labia, vulva or anus.
Possible contraindications
Despite the high efficiency and safety of argon plasma coagulation, this treatment method cannot be used if there are obvious contraindications. These include:
- Acute inflammatory pathologies of a systemic nature.
- Bleeding of unknown etiology.
- Poor blood coagulation.
- Cancer of the reproductive system.
Also, the procedure is not recommended until confirmation of the benign pathological process is received.
Preparatory stage
Before starting the procedure, the patient should undergo a comprehensive diagnostic examination in order to identify possible contraindications. At the stage of preparation for argon plasma coagulation, the following studies are prescribed:
- Transvaginal ultrasound of the cervix.
- Blood biochemistry and general analysis.
- A vaginal smear for hidden infections.
- A blood test for hepatitis and syphilis.
Individual appointments of consultations with narrow specialists. For example, women with an implanted pacemaker will need to visit a surgeon and cardiologist.
Procedure Progress
In the doctor’s office, a woman undresses to the waist and is placed in a chair. Then the doctor carries out the sanitation of the genitals and installs expanders. After that, he begins processing with the apparatus, through which energy acts on pathological tissues. The specialist constantly monitors the entire process using mirrors and visually. Therefore, during the procedure, maximum accuracy and accuracy are achieved.
Such an effect is completely painless and takes no more than 15 minutes. After the procedure, the patient receives recommendations from the doctor and goes home.
Recovery phase
Full recovery after argon plasma coagulation takes about two months. During this period, the appearance of abundant vaginal discharge is considered normal, but there should not be any blood impurities in them. Discomfort in the lower abdomen may be present. Women rarely complain of severe pain. Throughout the recovery period, it is important to adhere to the following rules:
- Do not have sexual intercourse for three weeks, and then you must use barrier contraceptives afterwards.
- Carefully observe genital hygiene.
- Avoid overheating and hypothermia.
- Do not lift weights or engage in power sports.
Take specific drugs, as a rule, is not required. In some cases, the doctor individually prescribes medications, for example, to restore microflora or accelerate the healing process.
Argon plasma coagulation with caesarean section
With this intervention, the incision is made along the lower fold of the abdomen. Its length varies between 15-18 cm. Recently, the suture on the uterus is more often preferred to be processed with the help of argon. This approach provides quick healing, since there is a deeper heating of the tissues.
The use of argon plasma coagulation with caesarean section can significantly reduce blood loss, improve the course of the postoperative period. In addition, this method allows the wound to heal faster and does not require additional antibiotic therapy.
Reviews about the procedure
Patient opinions about this procedure are found only with a positive color. They note many advantages over other methods, namely:
- lack of need for hospitalization;
- high efficiency;
- safety of treatment for women who have not given birth;
- healing without scar formation;
- lack of pain.
In addition, the extensibility of the cervix does not fall. The probability of infection is negligible, since there is no direct contact of medical instruments with pathological tissues. On the other hand, argon disinfects the wound surface.
Why else do women choose treatment with argon plasma coagulation? Reviews say that this method of therapeutic effect is safe in terms of future pregnancy. Normal coagulation is accompanied by the appearance of a scar on the cervix, which makes it difficult to conceive and subsequent childbirth. In the case of using argon, bearing and delivery pass without complications, because a scar does not form on the genital organ.