Cone biopsies are used to diagnose cervical cancer in patients with either an abnormal PAP smear or an abnormal cervical punch biopsy . In a cytology smear individual cells are removed using either a very thin needle or by scraping a surface with an instrument. This technique is commonly used to remove relatively small and easily accessible masses. For subtle or deep lesions that cannot be felt through the skin, this procedure is used along with x-ray or ultrasound guidance. In this procedure, the surgeon removes a sample of tissue and submits it to the pathologist.
Microscopic slides are then prepared and examined by a pathologist.
The entire procedure takes 10-12 minutes. The pathologist discusses his findings with the surgeon who can then determine the best surgical procedure to perform. The surgeon cuts into the mass and removes a small wedge or slice. This method is used to establish a definitive diagnosis of cancer, before doing major surgery to remove a large mass. The lymph nodes are small, round structures found throughout the body that drain and filter body fluids.