Cystoscopy

The bladder is a muscular sac that stores urine until you can empty it through urination. Cystoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the inside of the bladder. At Urology Specialists of Ohio, our experienced urologists utilize cystoscopy for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, helping you achieve optimal urinary health.

What is Cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy involves inserting a thin, sterile tube with a camera (cystoscope) through the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body) into the bladder. The cystoscope allows the urologist to visualize the inner lining of the bladder and urethra, identify any abnormalities, and sometimes even perform minor procedures.

Reasons for Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy may be recommended by your urologist at Urology Specialists of Ohio for various reasons, including:

• Diagnosing bladder problems: Cystoscopy can help diagnose conditions like bladder stones, tumors, inflammation (cystitis), or urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Investigating urinary symptoms: Blood in the urine (hematuria), frequent urination, or difficulty urinating can be evaluated with cystoscopy.
• Treating bladder conditions: During cystoscopy, some minor procedures can be performed, such as removing bladder stones, biopsying suspicious lesions, or stopping uncontrolled bleeding.

What to Expect During Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy can be performed in an outpatient setting. Our urologists at Urology Specialists of Ohio will discuss the specific procedure details with you beforehand. Here's a general overview of what to expect:

• You may be given local anesthesia to numb the urethra or general anesthesia to make you sleep, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
• The cystoscope is gently inserted through the urethra and into the bladder.
• Sterile fluid may be instilled into the bladder to expand it for better visualization.
• The urologist examines the bladder lining and urethra using the camera on the cystoscope.
• If necessary, a tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for further analysis.
• After the procedure, you may experience some burning or discomfort while urinating, which typically resolves within a day or two.

Benefits of Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy offers several advantages for diagnosing and treating bladder conditions, including:

• Minimally invasive: Cystoscopy is a less invasive procedure compared to traditional surgery.
• Accurate diagnosis: Cystoscopy allows for direct visualization of the bladder and urethra, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
• Outpatient procedure: Cystoscopy can often be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing for a faster recovery.
• Treatment options: In some cases, cystoscopy can be used for therapeutic purposes during the same procedure.