Cystourethroscopy
Key points
- Cystoscopy is a procedure that enables your health care provider to view the inside of your bladder and urethra in great detail using a specialized endoscope (a tube with a small camera used to perform tests and surgeries) called a cystoscope.
- There are 2 types of cystoscopes, the standard rigid cystoscope and the flexible cystoscope.
- You will wear a hospital gown during the procedure.
- The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust.
Alternative names
Cystoscopy
Definition
Cystoscopy is a procedure that enables your health care provider to view the inside of your bladder and urethra in great detail using a specialized endoscope (a tube with a small camera used to perform tests and surgeries) called a cystoscope.
How the test is performed
There are 2 types of cystoscopes, the standard rigid cystoscope and the flexible cystoscope. The method for insertion of the cystoscope varies, but the test is the same. The choice of which scope to use depends on the purpose of the exam.
If the standard rigid cystoscope is used, you lie in the lithotomy position (on your back with your knees up and apart). The flexible cystoscope may be easier to insert than the standard rigid model. It does not require the lithotomy position for insertion.
The procedure usually takes between 5 and 20 minutes. The urethra is cleansed and a local anesthetic is applied. The scope is then inserted through the urethra into the bladder.
Water or saline is inserted through the cystoscope and fills the bladder. As this occurs, you are asked to describe the feeling to your provider, which provides information about your condition.
As the fluid fills the bladder, it stretches the bladder wall, enabling the physician to view the entire bladder wall. You will feel the need to urinate when the bladder is full. However, it must remain full until the examination is complete.
If any tissue appears abnormal, a small specimen can be taken (biopsy) through the cystoscope to be analyzed.
How to prepare for the test
You must sign an informed consent. You will wear a hospital gown during the procedure. You should make arrangements for travel home from the hospital.
Infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For general information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
- Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
- Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
- Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
- School age test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.