Cystoscopy

Overview of Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy is a procedure that allows a healthcare provider 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 instrument called a cystoscope—which contains a light and camera—is inserted through the urethra and advanced into the bladder. This allows the physician to clearly view the lining of the urinary tract and identify any abnormalities.

Cystoscopy can be performed in a hospital, outpatient surgical center, or clinic setting. The type of cystoscopy and the use of anesthesia depend on the reason for the procedure and the patient’s overall condition.

Why a Cystoscopy Is Performed

Cystoscopy is commonly used to help diagnose, monitor, and treat conditions affecting the bladder and urethra. It may be recommended to investigate symptoms such as:

  • Blood in the urine

  • Painful urination

  • Frequent or urgent urination

  • Urinary incontinence

  • Recurrent urinary tract infections

The procedure can also help diagnose conditions such as bladder cancer, bladder inflammation (cystitis), bladder stones, or an enlarged prostate.

In some cases, small instruments can be passed through the cystoscope to perform treatments during the procedure. For example, a physician may remove a small bladder tumor, take a biopsy, or treat certain urinary tract conditions.

A related procedure called ureteroscopy may also be performed at the same time. This involves inserting a small scope to examine the ureters—the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

Possible Risks of Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy is generally considered a safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it carries some potential risks. These may include:

  • Urinary tract infection

  • Mild bleeding in the urine

  • Temporary burning during urination

  • Mild abdominal discomfort

To reduce the risk of infection, antibiotics may be recommended before or after the procedure in some cases.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

After a cystoscopy, mild symptoms such as slight burning during urination or small amounts of blood in the urine are common and typically resolve quickly. However, you should contact a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Fever or chills

  • Severe abdominal pain

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Difficulty urinating

  • Bright red blood in the urine or large blood clots

  • Burning during urination that lasts longer than two days

Preparing for a Cystoscopy

Preparation for cystoscopy depends on the reason for the procedure and the type of anesthesia used. Your healthcare provider may recommend taking antibiotics before or after the procedure to help prevent infection. You may also be asked to follow specific instructions regarding eating, drinking, or medications before the procedure.

It is important to follow all instructions provided by your healthcare team to ensure the procedure goes smoothly and recovery is as comfortable as possible.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Cystoscopy is usually a relatively quick procedure. A simple outpatient cystoscopy may take 5 to 15 minutes, while procedures performed with sedation or anesthesia may take around 30 minutes.

During the procedure:

  1. You may be asked to empty your bladder before the test.

  2. You will lie on your back on an examination table.

  3. A numbing gel is applied to the urethra to reduce discomfort.

  4. The cystoscope is gently inserted into the urethra and advanced into the bladder.

Sterile fluid may be used to fill the bladder slightly so the physician can clearly view the bladder lining. During the procedure, tissue samples may be taken if needed for further testing.

After the Procedure

Most patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. If sedation or anesthesia is used, you may be asked to remain in the clinic until the effects wear off.

Drinking plenty of water after the procedure can help flush the bladder and reduce irritation. Some patients find that applying a warm compress or taking a warm bath may help relieve mild discomfort, if approved by their provider.

Results of a Cystoscopy

In many cases, the results of the cystoscopy can be discussed immediately after the procedure. If tissue samples were taken, they will be sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the results will be reviewed at a follow-up appointment.

If you have questions or concerns after your procedure, keeping a list of symptoms or observations can help guide your follow-up discussion with your healthcare provider.