Cystoscopy

 

What is a Cystoscopy?

 

A cystoscopy is a visual examination of the bladder performed with a telescope passed via the urethra (the tube that drains the bladder).  You will have either a spinal anaesthetic or general anaesthetic.

 

Hydrocele

 

Why is it done?

 

This is used to see inside the bladder for diagnosis of kidney and urethral problems and infections.  It is also used to biopsy bladder tissue, remove stones and take special X-rays of the kidneys.

 

Before the cystoscopy

 

You will be told when to stop eating and drinking prior to the procedure.  You should discuss with Dr Bourne before the procedure if you have any allergies or any medication you are taking, particularly if Aspirin / Arthritis medication or Warfarin.

 

How is it done?

 

Once on the examination table the perineal area is washed with a sterile solution.  The cystoscope is then passed down the urethra and into the bladder, sterile fluid flows through the cystoscope into the bladder which allows the Urologist to study and take biopsies of the bladder tissue.

 

 

 

The cystoscope is then removed and you are transferred to recovery area for further observation while recovering from the anaesthetic.

If you have a spinal anaesthetic you will have to rest in bed until the sensation comes to your legs.  If you have a general anaesthetic you will have to wait sometime until you can eat or drink.

 

You may be allowed to go home that evening or you may have to stay one night in hospital, Dr Bourne will advise you.

 

After the cystoscopy

 

You may have a little discomfort while passing urine and there may be some blood in the urine, this will settle quickly and will be helped by drinking plenty of fluids.

 

If you have a urinary stent inserted you may have -

  • Blood-stained urine
  • Experience bladder spasms and discomfort when the bladder is full
  • Pain in the kidney area when emptying your bladder
    1. You will need to arrange to have someone drive you home.
    2. Avoid vigorous exercise for two weeks.
    3. Resume driving two days after returning home.

The findings of the procedure will be discussed with you before you go home.  If biopsy samples are taken these results can take up to 5 days to come back, in this case you will receive an appointment with Dr Bourne in his Rooms the following week to discuss the results and further treatment if required.

 

Risks of this Procedure

 

Most cystoscopies proceed without any problems but on some occasions though –

  • urinary tract infection may develop
  • there may be excessive bleeding
  • rupture of bladder wall may occur
  • damage to urethra may occur
  • difficulty passing urine due to swelling of the prostate

Please notify us or present to the Emergency Department at John Flynn Hospital if:

  • bleeding persists

  • high temperature develops

  • bladder irritation continues

  • severe abdominal pain