Services
Diagnoses
Procedures
A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your physician to examine the inside of the bladder and urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. During the procedure, a thin tube called a cystoscope, which contains a light and lens, is inserted through the urethra and advanced into the bladder so the physician can view these structures.
Cystoscopy may be performed in a hospital, outpatient surgical center, or exam room depending on the reason for the procedure and whether sedation is needed.
Cystoscopy is commonly used to diagnose, monitor, or treat conditions that affect the bladder and urethra. Your physician may recommend this procedure if you are experiencing symptoms such as:
Blood in the urine
Overactive bladder symptoms
Painful urination
Urinary incontinence
The procedure can help identify conditions such as bladder inflammation, bladder stones, bladder tumors, or an enlarged prostate.
In some cases, small instruments can be passed through the cystoscope to perform minor treatments during the same procedure, such as removing a small bladder tumor or taking a tissue sample for testing.
Your physician may also perform a related procedure called ureteroscopy during the same visit. This involves using a small scope to examine the ureters, the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
Cystoscopy is generally a safe procedure with few risks. In rare cases, bacteria can enter the urinary tract during the procedure and cause an infection. To reduce this risk, your physician may prescribe antibiotics before or after the procedure.
Some patients may notice a small amount of blood in the urine following the procedure. Mild abdominal discomfort or a burning sensation during urination may also occur for a short period after the exam.
Although complications are uncommon, you should contact your physician or seek medical care if you experience:
Fever above 101°F
Chills
Severe abdominal pain
Persistent pain or burning during urination lasting more than two days
Inability to urinate
Bright red blood or large blood clots in the urine
Mild discomfort after cystoscopy can often be relieved with simple measures. Applying a warm, moist cloth over the urethral opening may help ease irritation. Some patients also find relief by soaking in a warm bath, though you should confirm with your physician before doing so.
Drinking plenty of water is also recommended after the procedure. Increased fluid intake helps flush the bladder and urinary tract.
Your physician may recommend taking antibiotics before and after the procedure to help prevent infection. In some cases, you may be asked to avoid urinating before arriving for your appointment. Be sure to follow all preparation instructions provided by your healthcare team.
A simple cystoscopy typically takes about five to fifteen minutes. If sedation or anesthesia is used in a hospital or surgical setting, the procedure may take closer to thirty minutes.
You will first be asked to empty your bladder and lie on your back on an exam table. Depending on the situation, a sedative or anesthetic may be administered. A numbing gel is then applied to the urethra to reduce discomfort.
The physician gently inserts the cystoscope into the urethra and guides it toward the bladder. A sterile fluid may be used to fill the bladder slightly so the lining can be examined more clearly. You may feel the urge to urinate during this part of the procedure.
If necessary, the physician may collect small tissue samples for testing during the procedure.
Most patients are able to return to their normal routine shortly afterward, though you may need to remain in the office until any sedative medications wear off.
In many cases, your physician may be able to discuss the results immediately after the procedure. If a tissue sample was collected, it will be sent to a laboratory for further analysis, and your doctor will review the findings with you during a follow-up appointment.
If you have questions or experience any symptoms following the procedure, it is important to discuss them with your physician during your follow-up visit.
843-884-8045