What’s a cystoscopy?
A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows a urologist to examine the lining of the bladder and the tube that carries urine out of the body. Performed by a urologist, this procedure provides a clear image of the bladder for accurate assessment. The main goals of a cystoscopy are to:
- Diagnose bladder infections
- Diagnose bleeding in the bladder
- Obtain a tissue biopsy or sample
- Diagnose bladder disorders
- Measure the capacity of the bladder
- Remove foreign bodies or stones from the urinary tract
- Find tumours in the urinary tracts
- Collect sterile urine samples
Patients with the following symptoms could require a cystoscopy:
- Urinary incontinence
- Hematuria
- Urinary hesitation
- Painful urination
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Prostate hypertrophy
- Kidney stones
- Bladder cancer
- Interstitial cystitis
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Overactive bladder
- Foreign bodies in the urinary tract
How is a cystoscopy performed?
A cystoscopy is performed by a urologist using a cystoscope. A cystoscopy is usually done under local anesthesia. It’s rarely performed under spinal or general anesthesia. There’s no need to fast prior to the procedure. It’s best to empty the bladder before the procedure. It’s not painful. Patients usually report feeling discomfort or a burning sensation. However, this only lasts for a few minutes.
The cystoscope is half the diameter of the urethra. It’s inserted into the bladder via the urethra. A video camera is attached to the cystoscope to project images onto a monitor. A sterile liquid is then injected into the bladder to provide a clear image of the bladder wall. Other instruments can be attached to the cystoscope to perform a biopsy or remove a foreign body.
Pain, hematuria and painful urination are the most common complaints from patients who have undergone a cystoscopy.
The cystoscope is half the diameter of the urethra. It’s inserted into the bladder via the urethra. A video camera is attached to the cystoscope to project images onto a monitor. A sterile liquid is then injected into the bladder to provide a clear image of the bladder wall. Other instruments can be attached to the cystoscope to perform a biopsy or remove a foreign body.
Pain, hematuria and painful urination are the most common complaints from patients who have undergone a cystoscopy.
What are the side effects of a cystoscopy?
- Allergic reaction to the anesthesia
- Excessive bleeding
- Urethral stricture from scar tissue
- Damage or tearing of the urethra, bladder or ureter walls
- Urinary retention
- Prolonged pain and swelling, ranging from several hours to several days
How to prepare for a cystoscopy
- No food restrictions apply if the patient opts for local anesthesia
- Empty the bladder before the procedure
- Don’t be afraid; a cystoscopy isn’t life threatening
- Follow the urologist’s instructions
What are the recommendations after a cystoscopy?
- Drink plenty of water in the hours following the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
- Antibiotics may also be prescribed after a cystoscopy to further reduce the risk of infection.
- Notify the clinic if you feel a burning sensation that intensifies after 48 hours. A urine test and a urine culture can be performed and antibiotics may be prescribed.