Surgery to remove the cervix, nearby tissue and lymph nodes, and the upper part of the vagina. It may be used to treat women with early-stage cervical cancer who want to have children. After the cervix is removed, the uterus is attached to the remaining part of the vagina. A special stitch or band is used to act as the cervix and create an opening to the uterus. The stitch or band may be opened or closed as needed. Also called radical trachelectomy.