Cystoscopy

What Is Cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy is the inspection of the urinary system through the urethra with a cystoscope.  A cystoscope, which can be either flexible or rigid, uses optical fiber technology to transmit images from within the bladder to the doctor’s viewing piece at the other end.  The instrument has the thickness of a pencil and is equipped with a light for easier viewing.  Some cystoscopes have additional tubes through which the doctor passes instruments for surgical procedures within the bladder.   

If the doctor uses a flexible cystoscope, only local anesthesia is necessary (usually).  General anesthesia is a better option when the doctor is using a rigid cystoscope due to the pain caused by inserting the probe.  For cystoscopy, the patient generally wears a hospital gown or may choose to remove only clothing from the waist down with a sterile drape for a covering.  The patient then lies back with knees slightly parted and raised.  The doctor cleans the area around the opening of the urethra and inserts the cystoscope, slowly sliding it into the bladder.  The doctor then passes a sterile liquid through the tube to fill the bladder and stretch it out in order to enhance visibility of the bladder wall.  Due to the filling of the bladder, the patient may have the urge to urinate.