Cystoscopy is examination of the lining of the bladder (In Greek, Cysto - means bladder and scopy - means to look), using a fine telescope (cystoscope) passed through the water pipe (urethra).

Flexible Cystoscopy is carried out using a fine, flexible, fibre-optic telescope (as shown in the diagrams below), under local anaesthetic (gel instilled into urethra). It is almost like a catheter being passed.

Rigid cystoscopy is carried out under General anaesthesia.

Cystoscopy is a minor procedure, causes minimal discomfort and is usually undertaken as a day case procedure.

Some times it is combined with other procedures like bladder biopsy, urethral dilatation (stretching the water pipe), or bladder distension.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why are you recommending a Cystoscopy?

It is necessary to see if there is any physical cause in the bladder or urethra, to account for your urinary symptoms.

2. Is any special preparation necessary for my cystoscopy?

None whatsoever for flexible cystoscopy! You can eat and drink as normal and attend the appointment. However if you are having a rigid cystoscopy, you will be asked to come fasted for a period of atleast 4-6 hours. You should be able to  walk out yourself after the flexible cystoscopy, but you cannot drive for 24 hours after arigid cystoscopy under general anaesthesia. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown, as the procedure is a 'wet job'. You will also be asked to empty your bladder.

3. What does the procedure itself involve?

You will be told exactly what is going to happen next. You are in control and can stop the procedure any time!

The genital area is cleaned with mild antiseptic and the area covered with sterile disposable sheet. Then the local anaesthetic (lignocain gel) is instilled into the urethra. The gel comes in a syring/tube but there is no needle. It is squirted into the urethra. There may be slight stinging as it is working.

Then comes the procedure itself. Donot be alrmed at the size of the cystoscope! Only a small portion of it enters the bladder. There will be a gush of water through thescope and some of it may leak out . This is to facilitate viewing. As the instrument reaches the sphincter area, you will be asked to pretend as though you are passing urine - to relax the sphincter. There will be momentary discomfort as the pelescope passes through.
As one is examining the bladder lining, saline is used to fill the bladder and you may feel that you are passing urine. It is just a sensation!  If you are interested, you may be able to have a glimpse of the inside of your bladder either throught he cystoscope or on a monitor. By the end of the procedure which only takes a few minutes, you may feel the fullness and need to pass water again.

4.What are the after effects of cystoscopy?

• Most people will not experience any symptoms.
• There may be minor symptoms, which include
• Slight discomfort passing Urine (dysuria)
• Traces of blood in the urine.

Both above symptoms should clear within 24 hours. Drinking extra water can help   overcome these.

Infection (Cystitis)- If there is any suspicion, you may be given a shot of antibiotic (gentamicin) to prevent this. If you develop temperature or symptoms of Cystitis, you may require urine test and antibiotics.