Cystoscopy or Bladder Scope Test

What Is a Cystoscopy?

A cystoscopy is a test to check the health of your urethra and bladder. You might also hear it called a cystourethroscopy or, more simply, a bladder scope.

It’s an outpatient test, which means you can get it at your doctor’s office, a hospital, or clinic and go home the same day. The doctor inserts a tube into your urethra. If you’re a man, the opening is at the end of your penis. If you’re a woman, it’s just above your vagina. The test lets your doctor check the complete length of your urethra and the bladder for polyps, narrow areas called strictures, abnormal growths, and other problems.

How Does the Test Work?

Cystoscopes are tube-shaped tools. They have lights and cameras that let your doctor examine the interior of your urinary tract. There are two types of cystoscopes: a standard rigid cystoscope and a flexible cystoscope. The choice of which scope to use depends on the purpose of the exam.

What to Expect During Cystoscopy

The procedure generally takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Standard rigid cystoscope. You’ll lie on your back with your knees up and apart. Your feet will probably be in stirrups.Flexible cystoscope. No special position is needed. The doctor will help you find a comfortable position.

Is a Cystoscopy Painful?

You may feel discomfort when the cystoscope goes into the urethra and bladder. You’ll probably feel a strong need to pee when your bladder gets full. You may feel a slight pinch if the doctor takes a biopsy.

After the procedure, your urethra may be sore and it might burn when you pee for a day or two.

What Are the Complications of Cystoscopy?

Complications of cystoscopy are rare but can happen. The risks of having a cystoscopy include:

• Infection
• Bleeding from biopsy area -- it will show up in your pee
• Bladder wall rupture
• Hyponatremia -- a change to the natural balance of sodium in your body

Contact your doctor if you notice any of the following after the cystoscopy:

• Severe pain where the scope went in
• Chills
• Fever
• Peeing less than usual

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