Everything to know about cystoscopy

The procedure for the investigation of bladder pathologies through a camera is called cystoscopy. A cystoscope is a camera on the end of a thin tube that is inserted into the bladder through the urethra for magnified images from the bladder, as well as tissue samples. Experts like urologist in Lahore perform this investigation for ruling in or ruling out serious bladder conditions—including tumors of the bladder, non-cancerous growths, enlarged prostate and stones in the bladder.

Read on to know more about cystoscopy.

What are the types of cystoscopies?

The two main subtypes of cystoscopies are: flexible and rigid. In flexible cystoscopy, a bendable scope is used for the procedure; flexible cystoscopy is preferred for examination and reaching a diagnosis.

In rigid cystoscopy, the scope used is rigid and the procedure is performed with the patient in the lying down position. Rigid cystoscopy is useful for the removal of tumors and performing biopsies.

How is cystoscopy performed?

Admitting the patient: Depending on the condition of the patient and the suspected disease, cystoscopy is performed either on outpatient basis, or while the patient is admitted to the hospital. The procedure generally takes fifteen to twenty minutes. In most cases, pre-procedural antibiotics are administered, to lower the chances of getting an infection.

Emptying the bladder: The procedure is performed with an empty bladder. After donning on the gown, the patient is asked to lie down and positioned according to the type of scope used. For rigid cystoscopy the knees of the patient are positioned up and apart, mostly in stirrups. For the flexible cystoscopy, no special position is needed.

Inserting the scope: A sedative is thereafter administered to make the procedure comfortable for the patient. Alternatively, the procedure may be performed under general anesthesia. Thereafter, the urethra is cleaned, numbed and lubricated. The scope is then inserted through the urethra into the bladder. Sterile saline is then injected into the bladder through the scope. This stretches the bladder to make it easier for viewing the lining. During this part, the patient may feel the urge to urinate due to the stretching effect.

Examining the bladder: the cystoscope is used to view the inside of the bladder, and a narrow instrument may be used to remove part of the bladder and obtain a biopsy sample. This is helpful in determining the cancer of the bladder. Urine sample may also be obtained during this part of the procedure.

Removal of the scope: after the procedure, the scope is removed and the patient is asked to urinate and empty the bladder in the restroom. The sample of the tissue is then sent for histological exam and to check for the presence of any type of cancer. The urine sample is also sent for complete analysis.

Recovering after the procedure

After the procedure, the patient is taken to the recovery room for observation. If the blood pressure, heart rate and breathing of the patient are all normal, the patient may be discharged. Because mild sedation is used for the procedure, the patient may return to activities of daily living soon after, unless otherwise instructed by the healthcare provider.

After the procedure, the patient is instructed to drink extra fluids to dilute the urine and reduce the discomfort associated with the procedure. In most cases, there is mild burning sensation that lessens with time. A warm sitz bath can also help to decrease the post-procedural discomfort. Blood in the urine is also normal after the procedure at least for a day or two. If the bleeding persists or gets heavier, seek immediate help from your healthcare provider or Best urologist in Karachi.