​Cystoscopy

A Cystoscopy is a procedure that allows a visual examination of the urethra and bladder.
During a Cystoscopy your Urologist is able to: examine areas of the lower urinary tract that do not show up well on X-rays or ultrasound. A Cystoscopy is a day procedure and you will NOT be admitted to the hospital.


The Cystoscopy

Please arrive at the Cystoscopy unit on time. You can expect to be at the hospital 45 min to 60 minutes; however the Cystoscopy itself will last only a few minutes.

Risks
All surgical procedures have inherent risks associated with them.  Despite these risks being very low, we believe it is important that all patients who choose a surgical option are aware of the potential for unwanted outcomes.

Cystoscopy is a very safe procedure, however, the risks do include anesthetic complications such as adverse drug reaction to the local anesthetic gel.  Specific to the cystoscopy, common risks include blood in the urine, pain, and urinary urgency.  Urinary tract infection can be introduced with the scope very rarely.  

When you arrive

A local anesthetic numbs the urinary opening and urethra to reduce the discomfort; you will be awake during the procedure. You should not feel pain but may be uncomfortable and you may feel pressure during the Cystoscopy. This Cystoscopy is performed by placing a well lubricated cystoscope into the urinary opening, through the urethra and into the bladder. The bladder is then filled with sterile water to assist with the systematic visual examination.

After Cystoscopy

After the Cystoscopy you will be able to resume normal activities including driving. The doctor will discuss the results of the Cystoscopy immediately following and/or may also book a follow up appointment in his office.

For the next few days after Cystoscopy you may feel burning when you urinate or see blood in your urine. It is recommended that you drink water and other fluids regularly and empty your bladder often to speed up the disappearance of these symptoms.

When Should I Call my Doctor?

You should contact our office if your bleeding or burning persists for more then a few days, if you are having a hard time passing your urine of if you develop a fever.

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Q&A

1. What is a Cystoscope?

     It is a thin flexible tube that contains a lens, light and instruments used to perform biopsies if needed

2. Will it hurt?

     The procedure may be uncomfortable and you may feel pressure or an urge to urinate, but it should not be painful.

3. How long will it take?

     The procedure will only take a few minutes; however,you should expect to be at the hospital for about 45-60 minutes in total.

Urology North

Call Us:  +1-705-995-2490

North Bay Ontario