A Cystoscopy is an examination of the inside of the bladder and the urethra (the tube that drains the bladder to the outside), done with a special viewing camera. It is more accurate than standard ultrasound or CT imaging when it comes to diagnosing conditions of the lower urinary tract (bladder, prostate and urethra).
- Local anaesthetic is instilled and fluid is placed into the bladder to assess this.
- This is slightly uncomfortable, but over in a few minutes.
- There is risk of bleeding and urinary tract infections.
Rigid cystoscopy
This is a procedure completed in the operating theatre. This is for when the surgeons believe there are more complex additional procedures which may be required. Or there is concern that there is a malignancy present.
As this is a rigid instrument, a general or spinal anaesthetic is required. If there is abnormal findings present, then we can proceed with the intervention required to complete the procedure. We will discuss all this with you are your consultation.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
- Burning when passing urine for 1-2 days
- Voiding more frequently than usual
- Mild blood in the urine
WHAT ABOUT DIET?
- Drink plenty of fluids (8-10 glasses or 2-3 litres)
- Eat a diet high in fibre to prevent the need for straining when using your bowels
WHAT ABOUT EXERCISE/ACTIVITY?
- Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting or engage in sports for the next day unless otherwise instructed by your doctor
WHAT ABOUT MEDICATIONS?
- You can resume your usual medications
- If your blood thinning medication was stopped, your Doctor will let you know when to recommence
- You can take 1-2 paracetamol every 4-6 hours for pain and discomfort (no more than 8 in a day)
- Ural sachets (urine alkaliser) available from chemists and supermarkets, reduce acidity of the urine and provide relief from symptoms such as burning and stinging
WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS?
- Significant bleeding, possibly with clots
- Urinary retention (unable to pass urine)
NOTIFY GEELONG UROLOGY or your GP if you experience any of the following:
- Heavy bleeding – urine that looks like pure blood
- Increased discomfort, severe pain and burning when passing urine
- Cloudy or offensive urine
- Fever (temperature over 37.5 degrees), chills, shakes or feeling generally unwell
- Increasing difficulty or unable to pass urine
FOLLOW UP APPOINTMENT
Your doctor will generally speak to you about the results of the procedure before you are discharged home and an appointment will be made by the hospital staff. If an appointment time is not given to you on discharge from hospital, you will need to phone Geelong Urology to make an appointment.
If you have any queries please contact Geelong Urology on 03 5229 9105 during business hours OR leave a message on the After Hours Urology Paging Service 03 9387 1000
