New LEEP Machine arrives at Aspirus Woodruff Clinic

August 5, 2024

WOODRUFF – Aspirus Woodruff Clinic recently introduced its new LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) Machine, which helps treat cervical dysplasia.

Joelle Wennlund, a board-certified gynecologist at the clinic, said it’s a valuable technology to have in Woodruff to assist in preventing cervical cancer.

“Before we had the unit here, we had to arrange for another facility to try and fit into their schedule,” she said. “Oftentimes, women coming from further distances north of Woodruff had to travel an hour, two hours or more, to get this procedure done.”

Wennlund said the LEEP is a treatment for abnormal cells on the cervix that uses a thin, low-voltage electrified wire loop to cut away abnormal tissue. 

It’s primarily used to diagnose and treat precancerous changes in the cervix.

Wennlund said the benefits include precise removal of abnormal tissue, a high success rate, minimal discomfort and a quick recovery.

“It actually takes longer to set up the LEEP machine than it does to do the procedure,“ she said.

The Howard Young Foundation purchased the LEEP Machine for Aspirus Woodruff Clinic – thanks to donations from the community.