Ureteral retrograde brush biopsy cytology

Alternative names

Biopsy - brush - urinary tract; Retrograde ureteral brush biopsy cytology

Definition

Ureteral retrograde brush biopsy cytology is a diagnostic procedure in which tissue from the kidney or ureter (tube that connects a kidney to the bladder) is removed for examination.

How the test is performed

This procedure is performed using regional (spinal) or general anesthesia. The test will take about 30 to 60 minutes.

A cystoscope (a long, thin tube) is placed through your urethra into the bladder. A guide wire is inserted through the cystoscope and into your ureter (tube between the bladder and kidney).

The cystoscope is then removed, leaving the guide wire in place. A ureteroscope (small camera to visualize the inside of the ureter and kidney) is passed over or beside the guide wire.

Once the suspect area is identified, a nylon or steel brush or biopsy forceps is placed through the ureteroscope and the lesion is rubbed with the brush, or a sample is collected with the biopsy forceps. When the brush or biopsy forceps is removed, the tissue from the lesion is removed from the instrument and the instrument and guide wire are completely removed from the body. The tissue is then sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis.

How to prepare for the test

Fasting for about 6 hours is generally recommended. Your health care provider will advise you regarding specific preparation.

You must sign a consent form. You will be given a mild sedative before the test.

Infants and children:

The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• 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)
  
• Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
  
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)
  

How the test will feel

Your bladder may feel full, and you may experience some cramping or discomfort during the test.

Afterward, you may have some mild cramping or discomfort. Some burning may occur the first few times you empty your bladder. There may also be some blood in your urine for a few days after the procedure.