Flexible Cystoscopy
Having a flexible cystoscopy:
A patient information leaflet
Flexible cystoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to look inside your bladder using
a thin, flexible, tube-like telescope called a cystoscope. This is carefully passed up the
urethra (the tube through which urine is passed) and into the urinary bladder.
This test allows inspection of the bladder wall very closely for abnormal growths,
bulges, ulcers or stones. It also is useful for visual inspection of the urethra (water
passage) and the prostate gland in men.
During the procedure, your doctor may take one or more biopsies (samples of tissue)
for examination under a microscope.
Flexible cystoscopy is routinely performed as an out-patient or day case.
Before the procedure:
You don't need to make any special preparations for the test. Please eat and drink as
usual on the day of the procedure. You do not need to fast for this procedure.
If you normally take medications (eg: tablets for blood pressure, diabetes) please
continue to do so. If you are unsure about taking your medication, please contact us
on 0208 3635598.
You will be asked to empty the bladder and we will test the urine with a dipstick to
rule out active infection.
Please inform us if you think you may have an infection or are pregnant. This test
may be performed even if you may be having your periods without any problem.
The procedure
You will be asked to empty your bladder before the test.
A local anaesthetic gel to numb the urethra is instilled.
The cystoscope is then carefully passed into the urethra.
Sterile water is passed through the scope to ensure adequate vision and hence you will
have the feeling of your bladder filling up. This is due to the fluid we instil during the
procedure.
The test usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. It's not painful, but you may be aware
of slight discomfort, pressure, or a pushing/pulling sensation in the bladder.
After the procedure
You may detect blood in your urine or some burning in your urine following the
procedure. Please drink plenty of water and this should ease with each void.
Should you continue to have bleeding or pain while passing urine please contact your
GP or call us on 02083635598
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