DESCRIPTION OF CYSTOSCOPY
Cystoscopy is a procedure that is used to visually inspect the bladder and the urethra (tube leading out of the bladder). This can be done in most instances without discomfort with the use of a local anesthetic jelly (not an injection).

For Males: You will lie flat on a table and the penis will be cleaned (or prepped, as we say). A local anesthetic will be placed into the urinary channel and left for a short time. The cystoscope (a thin lighted tube through which a physician or surgeon can examine the bladder and urethra) is passed into the bladder and the inspection is carried out. The entire exam takes less than 10 minutes.

For Females: You will be positioned as for a pelvic examination. A local anesthetic jelly will be placed into the opening of the urethra (urinary channel) and left for a short time. A flexible scope will then be inserted and the bladder examined.

Afterward, you might expect a little discomfort with voiding and perhaps a spot of blood for a day or so. A warm bath helps to relieve this irritation and will wash off the soap we have used to prep the area. You may receive some antibiotics for a few days afterwards. Ask if you have any questions.

POSSIBLE RISKS OF CYSTOSCOPY
After this type of procedure a small risk of infection exists. If new symptoms of burning, frequency or bleeding occur afterwards, please let us know.

PREPARATION FOR CYSTOSCOPY
No restrictions of diet, fluids or medications exist for this examination.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS
After your office cystoscopy you will be able to return home. How you will feel will depend on the reasons that the cystoscopy was performed. In most instances, you will have no problems urinating and will have little or no symptoms.

Some patients will feel mild irritation or a sense of “burning” with urination that will last one to two voids. If irritation continues, a warm bath may help.

However, if the irritation is new and continues more than 24 hours, please let us know. For the first day, you should drink 2-3 glasses of water in the first hour or two after the procedure. Stay away from irritating foods or liquids until all the symptoms have resolved. Such liquids and foods include coffee, soft drinks, cranberry juice and spicy foods.

Some patients will notice a speck of blood in the urine or in their underwear for the first day. If the bleeding is more severe and continues, let us know.

Medication

Some patients will receive medication before or after the cystoscopy. You should continue any medication as prescribed. If you have persistent burning you may purchase an over the counter bladder pain reliever such as “Azo” or “Uristat” from your local pharmacy.

Activity

It is best to take it easy today! Resume activities as tolerated.

Call Your Doctor If:

1. You have a temperature over 101°C, chills, or are unable to void for 5-6 hours.

2. You have a significant amount of clots that prevent urination or the flow of urine.

• If you experience any of these problems when the office is closed, you will need to go to the emergency room.

• If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices.