What is Cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy is a key diagnostic procedure that allows for direct visualisation of the interior of the urinary bladder and urethra in real time. It is a commonly performed procedure in urology that can help diagnose, monitor, and treat conditions affecting the urinary bladder and urethra. This comprehensive guide will delve into what Cystoscopy is, how it's performed, what it can diagnose, and what patients can expect before, during, and after the procedure. 

What Is Cystoscopy?  

Cystoscopy is a medical procedure that gives healthcare providers a direct view of the urinary bladder and urethra using a cystoscope—a thin, tube-like instrument with a camera and light at the end. The procedure can be diagnostic or therapeutic, serving not only to identify problems but also to deliver treatments and interventions in certain cases. 

Types of Cystoscopy

There are two main types of Cystoscopy: flexible and rigid. A flexible Cystoscopy uses a thin, flexible scope and is typically performed under local anesthesia. It is generally used for diagnostic purposes. A rigid Cystoscopy, on the other hand, uses a firm scope and is often performed under general or spinal anesthesia, allowing for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. 

Why Is Cystoscopy Performed? 

Cystoscopy can help diagnose several conditions, including but not limited to: 

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) 

• Urinary bladder stones 

• Urinary bladder inflammation (cystitis) 

• Urinary bladder cancer 

• Enlarged prostate (in men) 

• Urinary blockages 

It can also be used to perform certain treatments, such as removing small urinary bladder stones, taking biopsies, or administering medications directly into the bladder. 

Preparing for Cystoscopy  

Patients are usually instructed to empty their bladder before the procedure. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. It's important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be paused or adjusted. 

During the Procedure 

For a flexible Cystoscopy, the patient is usually awake, and a local anesthetic gel is applied to numb the urethra, where the scope will be inserted. For a rigid Cystoscopy, general or spinal anesthesia is administered. The cystoscope is gently inserted through the urethra into the bladder. Water or saline is then infused through the cystoscope to expand the bladder and improve visibility. The healthcare provider can then inspect the bladder lining and urethra for abnormalities. 

After the Procedure  

Following a Cystoscopy, patients may experience common side effects such as a mild burning sensation during urination, light bleeding, or frequent urination. Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate these symptoms. It's important to monitor for signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or severe pain, and to contact a healthcare provider if they occur. 

Risks and Considerations 

While Cystoscopy is generally safe, it does carry some risks, including infection, bleeding, and in rare cases, injury to the bladder, or urethra, or prostate. It's crucial to discuss potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. 

Life After Cystoscopy 

The results of a Cystoscopy may lead to further testing or treatments. For some, it can bring peace of mind by ruling out serious conditions. For others, it may mark the beginning of a treatment journey for identified conditions. 

Cystoscopy is a valuable tool in urology that contributes significantly to our understanding and management of urinary tract conditions. By allowing healthcare professionals to see inside the bladder and urethra in real time, it facilitates accurate diagnoses and tailored treatments. If you or someone you know is preparing for a Cystoscopy, understanding the procedure can help ease anxieties and prepare for a smooth experience and recovery. Feel free to get in touch with us at OT&P and know more! 

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Reference

1. Cleveland Clinic. Cystoscopy. 26 Nov 2024 Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/16553-cystoscopy 
2. American Cancer Society. What is Cystoscopy? 26 Nov 2024 Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/diagnosis-staging/tests/endoscopy/cystoscopy.html