Large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ): experience from sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Premalignant cervical lesion, also known as Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) if left untreated could lead to the development of cervical cancer. Large Loop Excision of the Transformation zone (LLETZ) is effective for treatment of CIN. Experience and equipment for this procedure is not readily and widely available in most health centres in sub-Saharan Africa. The study is aim at reviewing the morbidity and outcome of LLETZ conducted at the Colposcopy Clinic of our Teaching Hospital. A retrospective descriptive review of data obtained from patients who had LLETZ at our Colposcopy clinic from June 2015 to May 2017. LLETZ was performed on 58 patients. Out of these, 52 folders were retrieved and analysed. The mean age of the patients was 35.5 years ±6.2SD while the mean parity was 4.5±2.3SD. The main indication was CIN2+ in 36(65.2%) patients, followed by persistent postcoital bleeding in 8(15.4%) patients. Perioperative complication was seen in 12(23.1%) patients. The concordance rate for CIN lesions after treatment was 92%. LLETZ is a safe and effective procedure for treatment of CIN lesion. The perioperative complications and the concordance rate for CIN lesion after treatment observed in our centre are within acceptable range.