The cervix is considered the most vulnerable part of the female reproductive system. It is subject to many specific diseases, most of which require medical or surgical therapy. The choice of method of treatment depends on several factors: the nature of the pathology, the place of its localization, the degree of severity. One of the methods of intervention is argon plasma coagulation. This procedure will be discussed in more detail in today's article.
The essence of the technique
Argon plasma coagulation of the cervix is a relatively new and absolutely painless method of stopping gynecological pathologies, which is not accompanied by the development of complications. The essence of such treatment is the impact on the affected area with a radio wave, which contains a slight gain in the form of an inert gas (argon). The wave penetrates the tissues of the neckuterus without contact, so that the risk of subsequent scarring is reduced to zero. When the tissues and the electrode interact, a torch is formed. It is an argon plasma stream.
During this treatment, the treated tissue of the cervix heats up. As a result, the coagulation process starts. The argon-enhanced radio wave heats and vaporizes tissues and sterilizes them. The flow propagation depth ranges 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 operation.
Indications for prescription
The method of argon plasma coagulation involves the treatment of pathological conditions of the neck of the genital organ. The main indications for its appointment are:
- neoplasms of epithelial origin (for example, warts or papillomas);
- myoma;
- leukoplakia;
- ectopia or pseudo-erosion;
- cervicitis refractory to drug therapy;
- various mechanical damage.
With the help of this procedure, pathological neoplasms of 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 method of treatment cannot be used if there are obvious contraindications. These include:
- Acute inflammatory pathologies of a systemic nature.
- Bleeding of unknown etiology.
- Poor blood clotting.
- 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 must undergo a comprehensive diagnostic examination in order to identify possible contraindications. At the stage of preparation for argon plasma coagulation, the following studies are assigned:
- Transvaginal ultrasound of the cervix.
- Blood biochemistry and general analysis.
- Vaginal swab for hidden infections.
- Hepatitis and syphilis blood test.
On an individual basis, consultations are scheduled with narrow specialists. For example, women with pacemakers will need to visit a surgeon and a cardiologist.
Procedure in progress
In the doctor's office, a woman undresses to the waist and sits in a chair. Then the doctor performs sanitation of the genital organs and installs dilators. After that, he begins processing with an apparatus through which energy affects pathological tissues. The specialist constantly monitors the entire process with the help of mirrors and visually. Therefore, maximum precision and accuracy are achieved during the procedure.
This effect is completely painless and takes no more than 15 minutes. After the procedure, the patient receives recommendations from the doctor andgoing home.
Recovery phase
Full recovery after argon plasma coagulation takes about two months. During this period, the appearance of copious discharge from the vagina is considered the norm, but they should not contain blood impurities. There may be discomfort in the lower abdomen. Women rarely complain of severe pain. Throughout the recovery period, it is important to adhere to the following rules:
- Do not have sex for three weeks, and then make sure to use barrier contraceptives.
- Carefully observe the hygiene of the genitals.
- Avoid overheating and hypothermia.
- Do not lift weights or do strength sports.
No specific medications are usually required. In some cases, the doctor prescribes medicines individually, for example, to restore the microflora or speed up the healing process.
Argon plasma coagulation for 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 increasingly preferred to be processed using argon. This approach ensures rapid healing, as there is a deeper heating of the tissues.
Use of argon plasma coagulation for caesarean sectioncan 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.
Feedback on the procedure
Opinions of patients about this procedure are found only with a positive color. They note many advantages over other methods, namely:
- no need for hospitalization;
- high efficiency;
- safety of treatment for nulliparous women;
- healing without scarring;
- no pain.
In addition, cervical distensibility 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 argon plasma treatment? Reviews claim that this method of therapeutic exposure 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, gestation and delivery pass without complications, because the scar on the reproductive organ is not formed.
