Cystoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that allows direct visualisation of the inside of the bladder and urethra using a thin telescope. It is one of the most important tools in urology for investigating symptoms such as blood in the urine, recurrent infections, or abnormal imaging findings. Flexible cystoscopy is performed in the clinic or hospital under local anaesthetic, or under general anaesthetic if required, and is well tolerated by most patients.
TREATMENTS
Cystoscopy
Types of Cystoscopy
• Flexible cystoscopy (outpatient): Performed under local anaesthetic gel in the clinic or hospital. A thin, flexible scope is gently passed through the urethra. The procedure takes approximately 5–10 minutes, and most patients go home immediately afterwards.
• Rigid cystoscopy (theatre-based): Performed under general or spinal anaesthesia, providing a wider channel for intervention, used when biopsy, stent placement, or other procedures are expected.
• Enhanced optical techniques: Blue-light (photodynamic) or narrow-band imaging (NBI) cystoscopy improves detection of flat carcinoma in situ lesions that may be missed with standard cystoscopy.
Risks and Considerations
All procedures carry risks, which your surgeon will discuss with you in detail. These may include:
• Mild burning when passing urine for 24–48 hours
• A small amount of visible blood, which settles quickly
• Urinary infection in around 2–3% of patients
• Temporary difficulty passing urine (rare)
Recovery at a glance: Flexible cystoscopy takes 5–10 minutes; you can return to normal activities straight away.
1
Preparation
No special preparation is usually required for flexible cystoscopy. Urine should be free of infection beforehand; antibiotics are not routinely needed but may be given in specific circumstances.
2
The Procedure
Local anaesthetic gel is applied to the urethra. The cystoscope is gently advanced into the bladder, which is inspected systematically. Images or video may be recorded.
3
Immediate Results
Findings are discussed with you during or straight after the procedure. If anything suspicious is seen, further investigation or a theatre cystoscopy is arranged.
4
Follow-Up
For bladder tumour surveillance, a scheduled cystoscopy calendar is provided. Any biopsies or further investigations are arranged.
Our Approach
