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A cystoscope is a thin medical scope used to look inside the urethra and bladder. It has a light and viewing system that lets a clinician examine the urinary tract. Some cystoscopes are flexible, while others are rigid. The device is used during a procedure called cystoscopy.
read more about cystoscope ...The cystoscope is gently passed through the urethra into the bladder. Sterile fluid can be used to fill the bladder so the inner lining is easier to see. Images can appear through the scope or on a monitor. Small tools can also pass through some cystoscopes for tissue sampling or treatment.
A cystoscope can help investigate blood in the urine, repeated urinary tract infections, bladder pain, trouble urinating, or suspected bladder stones. It can also help clinicians check tumors, narrowing, inflammation, or structural changes. In some cases, a biopsy can be taken during the same procedure. The reason for cystoscopy depends on symptoms, test results, and the clinician's exam.
The procedure can be done with local numbing gel, sedation, or anesthesia, depending on the scope type and reason for the exam. You can feel pressure, the urge to urinate, or mild discomfort during or after the procedure. Drinking fluids afterward can help flush the bladder if your care team says it is safe. Call the care team for fever, heavy bleeding, severe pain, or trouble urinating.
Reusable cystoscopes need careful cleaning and high-level disinfection or sterilization between patients. Small channels and surfaces must be processed according to the device maker's instructions. Proper handling lowers infection risk and helps keep the view clear. Damaged scopes should be removed from service until checked or repaired.
No. A cystoscope is used to view the inside of the urethra and bladder. A catheter is a tube used to drain urine or give access to the urinary tract.
You can feel pressure, burning, or mild discomfort, but numbing medicine or anesthesia can help. Tell your care team if pain is severe or does not improve after the procedure.
Yes. Some cystoscopes allow small tools to collect tissue samples from the bladder. The sample can be sent to a lab for testing.
Yes, but mild burning or a small amount of blood can happen for a short time. Contact your care team if you cannot urinate, see heavy bleeding, or develop fever.
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