What is a Cystoscopy?
A cystoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows your urologist to examine the inside of the urethra and bladder using a thin instrument called a cystoscope, which contains a small camera and light.
The procedure can be performed using either a flexible or rigid cystoscope and may be carried out under local anaesthetic, sedation, or general anaesthetic, depending on the reason for the examination and the treatment required.
In addition to diagnosing conditions affecting the urinary tract, a cystoscopy can also be used to perform a variety of treatments during the same procedure.
Why Might I Need a Cystoscopy?
Your urologist may recommend a cystoscopy to investigate symptoms, confirm a diagnosis, or treat certain urological conditions.
Diagnostic Uses
A cystoscopy may be recommended to investigate:
- Blood in the urine (haematuria)
- Lower urinary tract symptoms, such as difficulty passing urine or frequent urination
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Urinary fistulas
- Follow-up assessment after previous bladder tumour treatment
- Abnormal findings on imaging or other investigations
Therapeutic Uses
During the procedure, your urologist may also perform treatments including:
- Treatment of an enlarged prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia – BPH)
- Removal or biopsy of bladder tumours
- Treatment of urethral strictures (narrowing of the urethra)
- Removal of bladder stones
- Retrograde pyelogram to assess the upper urinary tract
- Placement or removal of ureteric stents
- Treatment of vesicoureteric reflux in selected patients
What to Expect During Your Procedure
Before your cystoscopy, you may be given antibiotics either by mouth or intravenously to reduce the risk of infection.
Please inform your urologist of any allergies, medications, or medical conditions before your procedure.
If Performed Under Local Anaesthetic
- A numbing gel is gently applied into the urethra.
- The cystoscope is carefully inserted through the urethra into the bladder.
- Most patients experience little or no pain, although mild pressure or temporary discomfort may be felt, particularly as the scope passes through the prostate and bladder neck.
- Once inside the bladder, your urologist will perform a thorough examination and, if required, complete any planned treatment.
If Performed Under Sedation or General Anaesthetic
The procedure itself is the same, but you will be asleep or comfortably sedated throughout.
Before your procedure:
- Do not eat or drink for at least 8 hours, unless instructed otherwise.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home if your procedure is performed as a day case.
Recovery After a Cystoscopy
Most patients recover quickly and return home on the same day.
It is normal to experience:
- A small amount of blood in the urine for a day or two
- Mild burning or discomfort when passing urine
- Increased urinary frequency or urgency for a short period
Drinking plenty of water over the next 24 to 48 hours can help flush the bladder and reduce irritation.
When Should You Contact Your Urologist?
Although complications are uncommon, you should seek medical advice if you experience:
- Heavy bleeding or persistent blood clots in the urine
- Difficulty or inability to pass urine
- Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms
- Increasing pain that is not improving
- Symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as persistent burning, foul-smelling urine, or fever
Follow-Up Care
Depending on the reason for your cystoscopy, your urologist will discuss the findings with you either immediately after the procedure or at your follow-up appointment.
If biopsies or tissue samples were taken, the results will be reviewed with you once they become available, and any further treatment or management will be explained in detail.
