What is a cystoscopy?
A cystoscopy is an examination of the bladder, also known as a bladder endoscopy.
Procedure During this examination, the patient lies on the gynecological examination chair. A thin camera (flexible cystoscope) is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. To make the procedure as comfortable as possible, a local anesthetic lubricating gel is used.
After the camera is inserted, the bladder is filled with saline solution through a small channel in the instrument so that it expands. This allows the physician to assess all areas of the bladder lining, the openings of the ureters, and the urethra.
The patient can follow the examination on a monitor. At the end of the procedure, the instrument is removed and the bladder is emptied again.
Indications / reasons for the examination A cystoscopy should be performed if:
- urinary tract infections occur repeatedly
- blood in the urine is detected that cannot be explained by an infection or menstruation
- urge incontinence is present
Contraindications / when the examination cannot be performed
The examination cannot be performed in the case of an acute urinary tract infection. For this reason, we check the urine before every cystoscopy.
Risks Cystoscopy is considered a low-risk procedure. However, in rare cases it may lead to bladder infections caused by the examination, as well as minor injuries to the urethra or bladder. If complications occur, they can usually be treated effectively.
After the examination, some patients may experience a burning sensation when urinating. Urinary tract infections or blood in the urine may also occur. These symptoms usually disappear after a short time. If they persist, you should contact your treating physician so that appropriate treatment can be initiated.
