Cystoscopy
A cystoscopy is an examination of the inside of the bladder and urethra using a cystoscope, allowing the doctor to see inside the hollow bladder and evaluate urinary concerns.
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Recognize the Signs of Bladder Issues
Frequent urinary tract infections
Blood in the urine, frequent or urgent urination, or painful urination
Chronic pelvic pain, urinary blockage, stones, unusual growths, polyps, tumors, or cancer in the urinary tract
What Is a Cystoscopy?
A cystoscopy is an examination of the inside of the bladder and urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. The doctor performing the examination uses a cystoscope, a long, thin instrument with an eyepiece on the external end and a tiny lens and light on the end that is inserted into the bladder.
The doctor inserts the cystoscope into the patient’s urethra. The small lens magnifies the inner lining of the urethra and bladder, allowing the doctor to see inside the hollow bladder. Many cystoscopes have extra channels within the sheath to insert other small instruments that can be used to treat or diagnose urinary problems.
What to Expect During and After Cystoscopy
In most cases, people having a cystoscopy will be able to eat normally in the hours before the test. Patients may be asked to give a urine sample before the test to check for infection and should avoid urinating for an hour before this part of the test.
After a local anesthetic is used to take away sensation in the urethra, the doctor gently inserts the tip of the cystoscope into the urethra and slowly glides it into the bladder. Sterile liquid flows through the scope to slowly fill the bladder and stretch it so the doctor has a better view of the bladder wall. In most cases, the entire examination, including preparation, takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Afterward, patients may have a mild burning feeling when they urinate and may see small amounts of blood in their urine. These problems should not last more than 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why might a doctor perform a cystoscopy?
A doctor may perform a cystoscopy to find the cause of urinary conditions such as frequent urinary tract infections, blood in the urine, frequent or urgent urination, painful urination, chronic pelvic pain, urinary blockage, stones, unusual growths, polyps, tumors, or cancer in the urinary tract.
How long does a cystoscopy take?
The time from insertion of the scope to removal may be only a few minutes, but the entire examination, including preparation, usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
What can happen after cystoscopy?
Patients may have a mild burning feeling when they urinate and may see small amounts of blood in their urine. These problems should not last more than 24 hours.
When should patients contact their doctor after cystoscopy?
Patients should tell their doctor if bleeding or pain is severe or if problems last more than a day.
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