Cystoscopy

A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows a urologist to view the inside of the bladder and the urethra.  It is commonly recommended to evaluate urinary tract problems that cannot be identified through simpler testing such as urine analysis or IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram).  More than just a test, the cystoscopy can be used to treat small bladder stones, tumors, bleeding and infection, eliminating the need for more invasive surgery. A cystoscopy can rule out many conditions, some of which are listed below: 

• Inflammation of the urinary tract
• Abnormal tissue or cells
• Bleeding
• Strictures (narrowed areas)
• Structural abnormalities
• Ulcers
• Stones
• Enlarged prostate gland in men
• Genital prolapse in women

There is always a small risk of injury with any medical procedure, therefore, the patient is required to sign a consent form before the physician performs a cystoscopy.  Prior to the cystoscopy, it is important to provide your complete medical history and details of your daily routine.  A urine sample may be requested to rule out an existing infection, which would necessitate postponing the procedure. You will receive special instructions regarding eliminating daily anticoagulants (aspirin, Plavix, Motrin, etc) or taking prophylactic antibiotics as determined necessary by your Urologist.    

The cystoscope is a very narrow instrument with lenses, much like a telescope or microscope.  The procedure is usually performed while the patient is under  local or general anesthesia.  Once the patient is placed in the stirrup position, a cystoscope is  inserted through the urethra, and sterile liquid (water or saline) is used to fill the bladder for optimal examination.  Once the cystoscope is inserted into the bladder, an extension can be used to visualize the ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder).  Depending on what needs to be accomplished, the entire procedure may last a few minutes to possibly 20 minutes. 

After testing, the patient may experience mild burning during urination and/or small amounts of blood in the urine.  This is considered normal within the first 24 hours. Patients are encouraged to drink extra fluids to relieve those symptoms and help prevent urinary tract infection.  However, if symptoms persist or if there is severe bleeding and/or pain, the physician should be contacted.  Antibiotics may be prescribed for one or two days prophylactically, immediately following a cystoscopy.  If other signs of infection, such as pain, chills or fever develop, the physician should be contacted immediately.  

A diagnosis may be discussed immediately following the procedure, but  if a biopsy was taken, a future appointment will be scheduled to discuss the results. 

Please call 631.444.6270 if you have questions and would like to see one of our Urologists.