Cystoscopy
What is a cystoscopy?
A cystoscopy is an examination of the bladder and urethra. This can be used to investigate both male and female bladder issues.
The most common reasons for having a cystoscopy are:
- Investigating urinary tract infections
- Pain when urinating
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Blood found in the urine
- Frequent need to urinate
- Unusual cells found in the urine
- A urinary blockage caused by an enlarged prostate gland
- Investigating suspected bladder diseases
How is a cystoscopy performed?
A microscopic camera called a cystoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder allowing your consultant to view images and assess the area inside. Once in place the cystoscope also allows small instruments to be inserted that can treat and diagnose urinary conditions.
There are two types of Cystoscopy; flexible cystoscopy and rigid cystoscopy.
Flexible Cystoscopy
A flexible cystoscopy is performed under a local anaesthetic and can be used for diagnosis and to take biopsies of the bladder. It is a thin, soft, flexible tube that is easily inserted into the urethra with a microscopic camera and an effective diagnostic tool.
Rigid Cystoscopy
A ridged cystoscopy is performed under a general anaesthetic as this is a wider scope often used more to treat bladder problems rather than diagnose.
What is the recovery time?
Recovery is quicker when undergoing a flexible cystoscopy rather than a ridged. You should be able to return to normal activities within a few days.
