What is cystoscopy?
The Cystoscopy procedure allows for the examination of the lining of the bladder as well as the urethra, which is a tube that carries the urine out of your body. A cystoscope is a probe light and a camera at the end. This probe is inserted through the urethra into bladder so that an investigation of the bladder can be performed. Magnified images are formed on a screen with the help of the camera. Cystoscopy can be performed in a testing room by making use of local anaesthetic in order to numb urethra. It may also be performed in a hospital under the influence of general anaesthesia.
Why do you need a cystoscopy?
The procedure is performed in order to diagnose, monitor the progress of as well as treat any medical condition that may be affecting the bladder or the urethra. It may be recommended in the following scenarios:
• In order to diagnose bladder conditions and diseases: conditions that can be diagnosed include bladder stones, bladder inflammation, bladder cancer etc.
• In order to diagnose an enlarged prostate: benign prostatic hyperplasia or an enlarged prostate can be diagnosed by observing the narrowing of the urethra at the spot where it passes through the prostate gland.
• In order to investigate the causes of the signs and symptoms observed: Symptoms such as incontinence, painful urination, blood in the urine and an overactive bladder can be investigated with the help of cystoscopy.
• For the treatment of bladder diseases and conditions: Tools and medicines can be passed through the cystoscope in order to treat certain conditions.
• Cystoscope may also be ordered if you suffer from the following:
• Pelvic pain
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• An overactive bladder
• Blood in the urine
• Enlarged prostate gland
How to prepare for a cystoscopy?
• A urine sample may be required to be tested by your doctor before the procedure.
• In case you have a weak immune system or are suffering from a Urinary Tract Infection, your doctor may prescribe you certain antibiotic medications to be consumed before and after the completion of the procedure.
• Arrange for a ride back home post your procedure, in case your doctor plans to perform the procedure under general anesthesia.
• In case you are taking any medications, make sure you confirm with your doctor regarding the same as certain medications can cause excessive bleeding during cystoscopy.
• Plan in advance for a break from work as you might need some time to recover from the procedure.