Morphologic changes at the uterine cervix after cold-knife conization

Objective: To describe remodeling of the cervix after cold-knife conization with electrocautery of the cut surface. Methods: Histologic evaluation of the cervix in five patients who underwent radical hysterectomy within two weeks of cold-knife conization. Results: The postconization defect consisted of an inner zone of necrosis demarcated by an outer zone of white cell infiltration. Together these zones measured 0.5 cm. Conclusion: Dysplastic or malignant epithelium within the zone of necrosis would appear to be eradicated after cold-knife conization with electrocautery of the cut surface. Lesions outside this zone could potentially persist or progress.