Abortions (induced abortions) between nine and twelve weeks are usually performed surgically. The procedure is conducted while the patient is under a local anaesthetic. The cervix is partially blocked, and the foetus and placenta are removed by vacuum suction. Surgical abortion rarely leads to serious medical complications. However, in some instances the cervix is not completely emptied. This can lead to bleeding and perhaps infection. In that case the remaining matter has to be scraped out.