Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy is a procedure that enables your doctor to see the inside of your bladder and urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body) in detail using a specialized endoscope (a cystoscope), which has lenses similar to a telescope or microscope.  

A cystoscopy is usually performed in the clinical setting and takes about 20 minutes.  A scope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder.  Water or saline fills the bladder, stretching the bladder wall, enabling your doctor to see the entire bladder wall.  Should your doctor see any tissue that appears abnormal, a specimen may be taken for biopsy.

Concerns that are normal following cystoscopy:

• A small amount of blood in the urine
• Soreness in the urethra for a couple of days
• Burning upon urination for a couple of days

Concerns that should be addressed at once:

• Blood in the urine 24 hours following cystoscopy
• Decreased urine output
• Temperature 101.5º or greater or chills for more than 48 hours
• Severe pain