Cystoscopy is a medical procedure in which an instrument is inserted into the urethra in order to collect information that can be used in diagnosis or to provide treatment. The instrument includes a camera so the urologist performing the procedure can see what he is doing. There are several reasons for a doctor to request a cystoscopy.
The cystoscope has a number of functions in addition to a camera. The tool can be used to take urine and tissue samples from the urethra and bladder, and can also be used to perform minor surgical procedures, such as removing kidney stones. A cystoscope may also be used to place a catheter that will be used to inject dye for a medical imaging study to learn more about someone's urinary tract.
The first versions of cystoscopy were quite painful because they involved the use of a rigid tube. Most urologists today use a flexible cystoscope, which greatly reduces pain, and the procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis in a medical clinic or hospital. The procedure is accompanied by some discomfort, especially for men, but it should not be painful.
Patients are asked to prepare for the procedure by urinating in many cases, and will also need to undress and change into a hospital gown. For some cystoscopy procedures, the patient will be put under general anesthesia for comfort. In other cases, a local anesthetic will be used, along with anti-anxiety medications to help the patient relax. The entire procedure takes 10 to 40 minutes, depending on why the cystoscopy is being done.
During cystoscopy, the cystoscope is slowly inserted into the urethra. Once it reaches the bladder, a fluid will be used to fill the bladder so the doctor can see more easily. The doctor can perform various procedures with the device, or simply look around to get an idea of what is happening inside the urinary tract.
Patients usually experience pain when urinating and some blood in the urine for several days after cystoscopy. For patients undergoing general anesthesia, it may be necessary to stay in the hospital overnight to recover, and a trip home will definitely be necessary. Patients who have a local anesthetic can leave soon after the procedure is done; A walk is recommended for patients receiving anti-anxiety medications.
With a cystoscopy, doctors can look for causes of problems such as painful urination, bladder infections, or pain in the pelvic area. They may also take samples of urine and suspicious tissue for diagnostic purposes. When a doctor recommends a cystoscopy, the patient should ask why the test is being recommended and what they should do to prepare.