Preparing for a DySIS scan

Colposcopy

If you have received an abnormal cervical screening result or your practice nurse has visually noticed changes in your cervix, you will be for colposcopy.

Colposcopy is simply a more detailed look at the cervix. Instead of looking at the cervix with the naked eye the clinician will use DySIS to look for any changes at high magnification. A DySIS examination is performed in exactly the same way as a standard colposcopic examination. A speculum is used to provide a clear view of the cervix much like you might have experienced during a smear test. DySIS may be equipped with a large video screen so that,should you wish, you can watch the examination. The procedure may take a little longer than a standard cervical screening but the doctor or nurse performing the colposcopy will talk to you as you during the examination and tell you what is happening.

You should be seen by staff dedicated to the colposcopy clinic. They will understand that you may be worried and will take time to discuss your screening result before the examination. You will be examined on a purpose-built couch. The cervix is examined with DySIS using a range of magnifications and optical filters. The clinician will put a number of different solutions on the cervix and look for changes that indicate the presence or otherwise of changes to the cells. The medical term for cervical changes is Cervical Intra-epithelial Neoplasia (CIN).

Acetic acid colposcopy

Acetic acid (dilute vinegar) is applied to the cervix using a spray. Abnormal areas such as CIN will tend to turn white (a process called aceto-whitening). DySIS' unique technology measures the aceto-whitening across the whole of the cervix and presents the clinician with a complete and accurate summary of the information in the form of map. You might ask your clinician to see that map and explain it to you. The clinician will use the DySISmap together with many other sources of information to form an impression of any abnormalities and whether or not to take biopsy.

Taking a biopsy

To complete a diagnosis, a biopsy is often required – this means taking a small sample of tissue from the cervix which can then be thoroughly analysed and allow the clinician to determine an appropriate next step.