Cystoscopy

What is a Cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy is a test which allows the physician to view the inside of a patient’s bladder and urethra. It’s performed using a thin, lighted camera known as a cystoscope. The doctor inserts this camera into the urethra and up into the bladder. The doctor can view areas of the bladder and urethra which typically don’t appear clearly on an X-ray. The urologist can also insert tiny instruments through the tube to obtain samples of tissue, known as a biopsy, or urine. Small bladder stones and some smaller growths can also be removed with this technique. So the test can help prevent patients from having to go back for an additional operation.

Why Is This Done?

A cystoscopy can be performed to:

• Determine the cause of several urinary system issues including blood in the urine, discomfort when urinating, incontinence, recurrent urinary tract infections, and obstructions in the urinary tract.
• Remove tissue samples for testing.
• Excise a foreign object.
• Insert a stent. This assists urine to flow from the kidneys out to the bladder.
• Address certain concerns. The test can be employed to extract small stones or growths, assists to stop bleeding in the bladder, or excise a blockage.
• Inject a dye which is utilized for a special form of X-ray done on the ureter and kidney.

How Should I Prepare for the Procedure?

Tell the doctor if you:

• Are allergic to any medications such as anesthetics.
• Have had bleeding conditions or take blood-thinners such as aspirin or warfarin, also known as Coumadin.
• Are or could be pregnant.

Follow the instructions provided by the urologist exactly, especially those regarding when to stop eating and drinking, or the surgery could be canceled. If the doctor tells you to take a medication on the day of surgery, do so with only a sip of water. Empty your bladder just prior to the test. You may receive medications to prevent a urinary tract infection which can occasionally be caused by the test.