Cystoscopy
The telescopic inspection of the bladder.
The Procedure
Either a full general anaesthetic (where you will be asleep during the procedure) or a spinal anaesthetic (where you are awake but unable to feel anything from the waist down) will be used. Your anaesthetist will explain the pros and cons of each type of anaesthesia to you.
A telescope is inserted into the bladder and the bladder inspected
After the Procedure
You will be able to be discharged home after you have passed urine.
Side Effects
Most procedures have a potential for side-effects and these are outlined below.
Common (greater than 1 in 50)
- Mild burning or bleeding on passing urine for a short time after the operation.
Occasional (between 1 in 10 & 1 in 50)
- Infection of bladder requiring antibiotics
- Temporary insertion of catheter
Rare (less than 1 in 50)
- Delayed bleeding requiring removal of clots or further surgery
- Damage to drainage tubes from kidneys (ureters) requiring additional therapy.
- Injury to the urethra causing delayed scar formation.
- Perforation of the bladder requiring a temporary urinary catheter or open surgical repair.
Going Home
When you get home you should drink plenty of water for the next 24-48 hours to flush your system through and minimize any bleeding.
You may notice some burning, frequency and pain in your lower abdomen initially but this usually settles after a few days.
