LEEP Machine and Equipment: What a Colposcopy Clinic Needs

LEEP procedure equipment in one view

LEEP and LLETZ are two names for the same family of excision procedures. Colposcopy is the diagnostic examination used to select the area; the excision is the treatment. In a see-and-treat clinic both are available in one room, so the equipment must be planned together.

Core items are a colposcope (see our colposcope types guide), an insulated speculum with smoke channel, a set of loop and ball electrodes in several sizes, a generator with a cut and a coagulation mode, a return pad, a foot switch and a smoke evacuator.

• Electrosurgical generator with blended cut and coagulation
• Loop electrodes of several diameters and a ball electrode
• Insulated speculum, ideally with smoke evacuation port
• Return (neutral) electrode and cable
• Smoke evacuator with filter
• Foot switch and instrument stand

Choosing the electrosurgical generator

Look for fine power control at low settings, stable output into a range of tissue loads, a monopolar loop connection and a clear display. The BOWA ARC 350 is an all-in-one unit with two monopolar and two bipolar outputs, up to 400 W monopolar power, pre-programmed settings for standard procedures, EASY neutral-electrode monitoring with a baby mode and micro-regulation down to 0.1 W. Confirm with BOWA which program suits loop excision.

In Russian-language literature, high-frequency units for this work are often called radiosurgical; the output frequency of the ARC 350 is 350 kHz or 1 MHz, as listed by the manufacturer. Whatever name is used, ask for the frequency, the power curves and compatibility with your loop electrodes.

Return pad, speculum and safe set-up

Monopolar current needs a good return pad contact; use pad monitoring and follow the manufacturer's placement guidance. Prepare the speculum with a smoke channel, check electrode insulation and make sure the foot switch is within reach.

Typical hazards include burns at the pad site, vaginal wall contact with the loop, and fire risk with flammable skin preparations. Train all staff, and run a short checklist before each case. For the broader set-up of the room and tray, see the colposcopy equipment guide.

Smoke evacuation

Electrosurgery generates plume that contains particles and odour, so a smoke evacuator is a standard part of the room. BOWA's SHE SHA uses a four-stage filter with ULPA-15 and activated carbon, capturing particles down to 0.1 µm with 99.999 % efficiency, automatic sensor activation, three suction levels and a maximum noise of 55 dBA.

The ATMOS MEDAP FUMOVAC 700 provides 700 l/min in continuous operation, has a four-stage filter with three inlets for 22, 9.5 and 6.4 mm tubes, lasts up to 35 hours per filter and starts with the HF pencil via an automatic remote switch activator. Compare noise, hose connection and filter life.

Procurement checklist

Ask for the loop electrode range and prices per consumable, the generator warranty, training for clinicians and nurses and service support. Check which electrodes are single-use. Confirm registration status in the UAE with the relevant authority.

Beckfinity specialists can help you configure a LEEP room with generator and smoke evacuation; please request a quote or consultation. Related reading: BOWA vessel sealing in gynaecology.