What is a cystoscopy?
A flexible cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the inside of your bladder and urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of your body) using a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light source on the end called a cystoscope.
The procedure is carried out in our onsite Minor Procedures Unit.
If you would like to know more about the cystoscopy procedure, please contact our enquiry team who will help you arrange an appointment with one of our Consultant Urologist’s, Ms Neal and Mr Emara.
Recommendations before your appointment
- You can eat and drink normally, and you can drive before and after the test. There is no need to rest afterwards
- You may need to provide a urine sample before your cystoscopy, so we recommend coming to the appointment with a full bladder, ready to give a urine sample. Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time
What happens before the test?
- You may need to provide a urine sample to test for a urinary tract infection (UTI). Please tell the nurse if you have symptoms of a UTI such as a fever, rigors (shivering), pain when urinating (dysuria), or frequent urination (going often)
- We will ask you to sign a consent form, confirming you understand the reasons for the test, the benefit, the alternatives, and the risks
Results
- Your doctor will usually discuss the findings of the cystoscopy with you immediately after the procedure. If a biopsy was taken, the results may take several days or weeks to come back. Your doctor will explain the results to you and discuss any necessary treatment or follow-up.