Cystoscopy

Q | What is a Cystoscopy?

A | Cystoscopy is examination of the urethra (waterpipe) and lining of the bladder using a telescope called a cystoscope.

The cystoscope is slightly smaller than the diameter of a ballpoint pen and it is passed up the urethra into the bladder. There are two types of cystoscopes – flexible and rigid.

It is arranged by your urologist and is carried out as an outpatient procedure by the urology nurse specialists.

Q | What is Flexible Cystoscopy?

A | A Flexible Cystoscopy is usually performed to discover the cause of blood in the urine (haematuria), causes of bladder irritation, to diagnosis a urethral stricture (narrowing) or to remove a J-J Stent.

Q | What is Rigid Cystoscopy?

A | A Rigid Cystoscopy is the same examination of the urethra and bladder using a slightly bigger scope.

This is usually performed under general or spinal anaesthetic.

Q | How is Flexible Cystoscopy done under local anaesthetic?

A | After the groin area has been cleaned with an antiseptic solution, a local anaesthetic gel is inserted into the urethra.

This stings slightly when it goes in and then the anaesthetic begins to take affect.

Q | How long does the procedure take?

A | The procedure takes approximately 5-10 minutes to perform. Once the local anaesthetic gel has been inserted, the cystoscope is passed up the urethra and into the bladder.

Using a camera attached to the scope, the urethra and bladder are checked for strictures (narrowing), stones, bladder tumours or any other abnormalities. If necessary, small biopsies can be taken down the telescope.

If any further procedures are necessary, this will be discussed with you after the flexible cystoscopy.

If further investigations or surgery are required, a date for rigid cystoscopy under general anaesthetic will be booked.

Q | Where is Flexible Cystoscopy performed?

A | Flexible cystoscopy is an outpatient procedure carried out in the clinic. At the end of the procedure you will be able to leave the clinic and drive home.

Q | What happens after the procedure?

A | You may experience some minor discomfort or occasional bleeding when passing urine

This usually settles within a day or so. You will be advised to increase your fluid intake up to 2 litres per day for the following two days.

Q | Are there any complications?

A | If you develop a temperature or symptoms of cystitis, you may have a urinary tract infection requiring a course of antibiotics.

If this occurs, you should contact either the urology department or your GP for advice.