Choose the content to read

• What is cystoscopy?
• Types of cystoscopes utilized
• Why is a cystoscopy necessary?
• What are the steps involved in cystoscopy?
• Is cystoscopy painful?
• Are there any specific instructions to follow after a cystoscopy?
• What are the complications of a cystoscopy?
• When will I get the results of my cystoscopy?
• A note from MedPark’s doctors

What is cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy is a diagnostic procedure to examine the lining of your bladder and urethra. The doctor will insert the cystoscope into your bladder via the urethra. A topical numbing gel or general anesthesia may be given, depending on the purpose of the procedure.

Types of cystoscopes utilized

Your doctor may use a rigid or flexible cystoscope based on the diagnostic purpose.

• Flexible cystoscope: A bendable scope is gently inserted into the urethra to examine the bladder and urethral lining. It causes less irritation or discomfort than a rigid cystoscope.
• Rigid cystoscope: A rigid cystoscope can also examine the linings of the bladder and urethra, providing added benefits because of its broader versatility in performing different procedures. 

Why is a cystoscopy necessary?

• To investigate symptoms such as blood in the urine, incontinence, overactive bladder, and painful urination. Cystoscopy can help identify the cause of recurrent urinary tract infections.
• To diagnose bladder cancer, bladder stones, and bladder inflammation.
• To treat bladder diseases, such as removing bladder stones.
• To diagnose benign prostatic hyperplasia by locating the narrowing site of the urethra.

In some patients, the doctor may perform ureteroscopy simultaneously with cystoscopy to inspect the ureter that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

How should I prepare for a cystoscopy?

• Inform your doctor if you suspect you are pregnant or you are taking medications. Your doctor may adjust the dosage. However, do not discontinue your medications unless instructed by your doctor.
• Provide a urine sample on the day of the procedure to check for a urinary tract infection (UTI). If an infection is detected, you will likely require treatment before proceeding with the cystoscopy.
• Abstain from consuming food or drink for eight hours before a cystoscopy procedure under general anesthesia.
• Bring a friend or family member with you on the day of the procedure.

What are the steps involved in cystoscopy?

Your doctor will ask you to empty the bladder before the procedure; then apply a numbing gel or administer general anesthesia. The doctor will insert a lubricated cystoscope through the urethra into the bladder. Sterile saline solution will be instilled through the cystoscope to distend the bladder, making it easier to inspect the bladder lining. You may feel the urge to urinate during this step. Your doctor will examine the interior of your bladder and urethra and obtain tissue samples or excise the tumor encountered, then drain the saline solution from the bladder, or you can empty your bladder in the toilet.

What is the duration of a cystoscopy procedure?

Diagnostic cystoscopy typically takes 5-10 minutes, while therapeutic cystoscopy, which may involve tissue biopsy or treatment, can take longer.

Am I conscious during a cystoscopy?

You will be awake during a cystoscopy performed for diagnostic purposes. The doctor will apply an anesthetic gel to blunt the discomfort. However, for a therapeutic cystoscopy or biopsy, sedation or general anesthesia will be administered based on the circumstances.

Is cystoscopy painful?

You may feel an urge to urinate or discomfort. However, cystoscopy under sedatives or general anesthesia can subdue the pain.

Are there any specific instructions to follow after a cystoscopy?

If you have cystoscopy under sedation or general anesthesia, you may need to remain in a recovery area until the drug effects diminish before you can depart.
Other potential side effects may involve bleeding from the urethra, a burning sensation during urination, and an increased frequency of urination for the following day or two.

Following these instructions can help alleviate the discomfort you may experience.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush irritants out of your bladder. During the first 2 hours after a cystoscopy, drink two glasses (16 ounces) of water per hour.
• Take pain relievers.
• Apply a warm and damp washcloth to the opening of your urethra to ease pain.

How long does it take to recover from a cystoscopy?

Recovery from a cystoscopy takes a day or two for most individuals. However, it may be longer for cystoscopy with biopsy. 

What are the complications of a cystoscopy?

• Bacterial infection: The risk increases with age, smoking, and anomaly of the urinary tract.
• Bleeding: You may notice pink or reddish urine or blood on tissue papers. However, profuse bleeding is rare.
• Discomfort: Abdominal pain, discomfort, and burning during urination are usually mild and improve gradually after the procedure.

What are the signs and symptoms of a severe complication?

• Difficulty urinating after the procedure or urinary retention.
• Presence of bright red blood or significant blood clots in the urine.
• Abdominal pain accompanied by nausea.
• Fever exceeding 38.5 °C.
• Severe pelvic pain.
• Foul-smelling or cloudy urine, accompanied by a burning sensation.
• Persistent pain or burning during urination lasting more than two days.

When will I get the results of my cystoscopy?

Your doctor will inform you of the result on the day of the procedure. If the cystoscopy involves a biopsy, it will take 3-7 days to receive the pathology results. Your doctor will inform you of blockages, narrowing, stones, or abnormal tissue growth.

A note from MedPark’s doctors

Pain, blood in urine, or urinary issues can understandably cause anxiety. Cystoscopy is a quick diagnostic procedure with low risks of complications but swift recovery.