At Gwinnett OB/GYN, we offer in-office procedures. If a procedure has been recommended by the provider, please do not be alarmed. Most are minor, well-tolerated and only take a few minutes to complete.
This is procedure is done to obtain cells from the lining of the uterus. It is used to evaluate bleeding abnormalities. We often perform this procedure right after a sonohysterogram but sometimes it is done by itself.
A sonohysterogram is an ultrasound of the uterus that combines infusion of saline into the endometrial cavity to detect abnormalities such as endometrial polyps or fibroids. It is often used to evaluate infertility or bleeding abnormalities that can affect women of different ages.
This is a progestin-only contraceptive implant used to prevent pregnancy. It is one of the most effective reversible forms of contraception. It is placed underneath the skin of the upper arm and is effective for 3 years. Its insertion and removal is conveniently done in our office.
An intrauterine device is placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is a form of long-acting, reversible contraception. We offer all FDA-approved IUDs. The mirena and lilletta IUDs contain progesterone-like hormone and are effective for 5 years. Kyleena IUD is designed for women who do not have children and is also effective for 5 years. The paragard IUD is non-hormonal and lasts for 10 years. All IUDs are 99% effective in preventing pregnancy and are be placed/removed in the office. On a rare occasion, removal is difficult needs to be done under ultrasound guidance or in the operating room.
Colposcopy is done when an abnormal pap smear result is obtained during routine screening. During a pap smear, cells obtained from the cervix are sent in a liquid solution to the lab for examination. If abnormal cells are present, they are given different gradations, some more serious than others. The human papilloma virus (HPV) is the major cause for cervical dysplasia and colposcopy is the first step to treating the condition. Once diagnosed with HPV and/or an abnormal pap smear, it is important to pursue additional testing as recommended by your provider.
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a specialized procedure performed to treat cervical dysplasia. In this procedure, a small piece of the outer cervix is removed using a thin wire loop and electric current, effectively curing dysplasia. This procedure will be recommended if moderate to severe cervical dysplasia is diagnosed after colposcopy. While it can be done in the operating room of the hospital, we can also perform it in our office.
Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows visualization of the endometrial cavity using a small camera that is passed through the cervix. It is performed when abnormalities like polyps or fibroids are suspected. Endometrial ablation is done to burn the lining of the uterus to treat abnormal uterine bleeding in women who are premenopausal and have completed child bearing. An endometrial biopsy is often performed prior to endometrial ablation.
