A Cystoscopy (cis-TOSS-co-pee) enables the doctor to
examine the lower urinary tract visually. During the procedure,
a thin fiberoptic instrument (a tube with a light and lenses on
the end) is passed through the urinary duct (urethra) into the
bladder.
Risks
The bladder or urethra could be
injured during a cystoscopy. You could also develop a bladder
infection. However, if you follow your doctor's directions, you
are not likely to have problems.
IF YOU'RE HEADING FOR THE
HOSPITAL...
Before You Go
Your doctor will set a time after which you MUST NOT
eat or drink. Be sure to follow these directions
exactly.
If your doctor says you need to clear your bowel
before the cystoscopy, you may have to take a
laxative.
What to Expect While You're
There
You may encounter the following
procedures and equipment during your stay:
Taking Your Vital Signs: These include your
temperature, blood pressure, pulse (counting your
heartbeats), and respirations (counting your breaths). A
stethoscope is used to listen to your heart and lungs. Your
blood pressure is taken by wrapping a cuff around your
arm.
During the Cystoscopy...
You will lie on your back with a sheet covering
you. You will need to bend your knees and slide your feet
into metal stirrups. The area around the urethra will be
washed with soap and water.
A soft tube will be gently inserted in the urethra
and threaded into the bladder. The tube has a light and
camera lenses on its tip. Pictures of the bladder and
urethra will appear on a TV-like screen. You may feel the
urge to urinate during this
procedure.
To see how much your bladder can hold, the doctor
may run liquid through the tube. A sample of bladder
tissue and urine may be taken for
study.
The entire procedure will take about 20 to 30
minutes.
After You Leave
Avoid vigorous exercise for 2
weeks.
Do not have sexual relations until your doctor tells
you that healing is complete.
You may notice a small amount of blood in your urine.
This should go away in 24 hours.
Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a
day.
Call Your Doctor If...
Urinating becomes painful or
difficult.
You develop a temperature of more than 101 degrees F
(38.3 degrees C).
Seek Care Immediately If...
You have blood specks in your urine or your urine
turns a bright or dark red color.
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