Cystoscopy

(Cystourethroscopy)

by Editorial Staff And Contributors

Definition

A cystoscopy is a procedure to examine the bladder with a lighted scope. The scope allows the doctor to look through the urethra and into the bladder. The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.

Cystoscopy of the Bladder

Reasons for Procedure

Cystoscopy may be done to look for causes of:

Repeated urinary tract infections
Blood in the urine
Urinary incontinence
Frequent urination
Dribbling after urination
Pain during urination
Difficulty urinating

It may also help to diagnose:

Tumors
Bladder stones
Inflammation
Cysts
Pouches on the bladder wall
Ulcers on the bladder wall
Polyps
Narrowing of the urethra
Enlargement of the prostate gland in men

Possible Complications

Problems from the test are rare. However, all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

Infection
Bleeding
Damage of the bladder wall with the cystoscope—rare

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

Smoking
Active infection
Diabetes
Bleeding disorders

Talk to your doctor about these risks before the procedure.

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

This procedure is usually done in your doctor's office.

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is will numb the area in and around the urethra. A sedative may also be given to help you relax.

Description of the Procedure

You will lie on an exam table. A cystoscope will be inserted through the urinary opening. The doctor will carefully pass the scope into the urethra and then to the bladder. The scope will drain urine out of the bladder. A sample will be kept for testing. Next, the bladder will be filled with sterile water or saline solution. This will allow a better view of the bladder walls. The bladder and urethra will be examined.

How Long Will It Take?

Up to 15 minutes

How Much Will It Hurt?

Local anesthesia will keep you free from pain. You may feel some discomfort when the bladder is filled during the exam. It can also create an urge to urinate.

Post-procedure Care

There may be some burning or small amounts of blood when you urinate after the test. It should fade with each urination.

Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if any of these occur:

Frequency, urgency, burning, or pain when urinating
You are unable to urinate or empty your bladder completely
Blood in your urine after 24 hours
Signs of infection; including fever and chills
Pain in your abdomen, back, or side

If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

RESOURCES:

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
https://www.niddk.nih.gov

Urology Care Foundation
http://urologyhealth.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Canadian Urological Association
http://www.cua.org

Health Canada
https://www.canada.ca

References:

Cystoscopy. Urology Care Foundation website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed January 29, 2021.

Cytoscopy & ureteroscopy. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed January 29, 2021.

Last reviewed March 2021 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrienne Carmack, MD
Last Updated: 01/29/2021

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