A cystoscopy is a procedure to examine the bladder with a lighted scope. The scope allows the doctor to look through the urethra and into the bladder. The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.
Cystoscopy may be done to if you have the following symptoms:
Some abnormalities can be diagnosed through cystoscopy, including:
Problems from the test are rare. However, all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
Talk to your doctor about these risks before the procedure.
This procedure is usually done in your doctor's office.
Local anesthesia is used to numb the area in and around the urethra. A sedative may also be given to help you relax.
You will lie on an exam table. A cystoscope will be inserted through the urinary opening, into the urethra, and into the bladder. Your bladder will be drained of urine. A sample will be kept for testing. Next, your bladder will be filled with sterile water or saline solution. This will allow a better view of the bladder walls. The bladder and urethra will be examined.
Up to 15 minutes
Local anesthesia will keep you free from pain. You may feel some discomfort or the urge to urinate when the bladder is filled during the exam.
After the procedure, you may experience a burning sensation or see small amounts of blood when you urinate.
Call your doctor if any of these occur:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Urology Care Foundation
Canadian Urological Association
Health Canada
Cystoscopy. Urology Care Foundation website. Available at: http://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/cystoscopy?article=77. Accessed March 7, 2018.
Cytoscopy & ureteroscopy. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/cystoscopy. Updated June 2015. Accessed March 7, 2018.
Last reviewed March 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrienne Carmack, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
