Cystoscopy is an interventional procedure which is used to study the inside of the urethra and the urinary bladder with the help of a specialized instrument/ a scope which has a camera and light fitted at it’s end. Cystoscopy is a diagnostic procedure which is used for diagnosing various symptoms and pathologies associated with the urinary system.
What is a cystoscope ?
A cystoscope is a specialized instrument which resembles a slender tube whose one end is attached to a monitor and the end which is inserted in the urethra and consist of a camera. Basically, there are two types of cystoscopes.
- Flexible Cystoscope (made of rubber or biocompatible plastic)
- Rigid Cystoscope (made up of still material, mainly biocompatible material)
A flexible cystoscope is used only for examination purposes but if any procedures have to be performed a rigid cystoscope is used.
When is cystoscopy advised ?
Cystoscopy is a diagnostic procedure which is either used to identify bladder diseases or to treat them. Below mentioned are the most common uses of cystoscopy.
- To identify the cause of urinary incontinence, bleeding while urinating and painful urination.
- To determine the cause of urinary tract infections
- To examine an injury to the urinary tract system
- To diagnose any cyst in the bladder
- To identify any growths or polyps in the bladder
- To diagnose bladder cancer
- To identify stone in the bladder
- To diagnose diseases of enlargement of prostate gland
Cystoscopy may also be used to perform procedures along with examination and sometimes, a procedure called as ureteroscopy is performed to identify any abnormalities in the ureter (the tubes which carry urine from kidney to the urinary bladder).
Is cystoscopy gender specific ?
No, cystoscopy can be performed in both men and women to diagnose and detect bladder and urinary tract abnormalities.
When is cystoscopy not advised ?
There are no absolute contraindications for a cystoscopy procedure as it is a rather safe procedure and does not use any ionizing radiation. The procedure might not be advised in cases of severe urinary tract infection or if you have a history of cancer in the vicinity. The urologist or your treating doctor can give you more information on the suitability of the procedure for you.
Who performs a cystoscopy procedure ?
Cystoscopy is performed by a urologist with the assistance of technicians who are trained for the same procedure.
How do you prepare for a cystoscopy procedure ?
The procedure is performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital depending upon your choice. You will be asked to empty your bladder before the procedure and will be asked to change into hospital gown. It is advisable to ask your doctor about the possible risks and complications of the procedure.
Is anesthesia administered before a cystoscopy procedure ?
Yes, usually local, general or epidural anesthesia is administered before the procedure depending upon the requirement. Occasionally antibiotics may also be administered to prevent any infection post procedure. Intravenous (IV) sedation might be administered during the procedure.
What happens during a cystoscopy procedure ?
Once the anesthesia is administered or not administered, the urologist will ask you to lie down on your back on the examination table with your legs spread apart. The urologist will then insert the cystoscope after applying a gel to numb your urethra, then the inner surfaces are examined for any abnormalities or growths. Sometimes sample tissues are also taken to identify the disease or the organism causing the infection. The bladder is filled with a sterile solution, saline so that the organs swells up and it is easy to identify any abnormality in it. The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes and you will be allowed to empty your bladder after that. You will be sent home the same day or a day later and can resume your normal activities on advice of the doctor.
What are the possible risks and complications of cystoscopy ?
Cystoscopy is a rather safe procedure but complications like pain, bleeding and infection might occur after the procedure. If you identify blood in your urine, have high fever and chills and burning sensation while urinating you should see your doctor immediately.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
