Cystoscopy

The urinary tract is prone to certain complex problems often requiring innovative solutions to properly diagnose and treat the issue. Examples of urinary tract conditions that may need a workup by a urologist include:

• chronic burning with urination (dysuria)
• blood in the urine (hematuria)
• bladder cancer evaluation
• chronic prostatitis
• urethral stricture
• overactive bladder
• urinary incontinence
• enlarged prostate
• recurrent urinary tract infections

The conditions mentioned above, along with others, may require an in-office cystoscopy, or bladder scope, to properly define the anatomy and offer specific treatments. Patients often have reservations when cystoscopy is recommended by Dr. Dhir or another provider. You can rest assured that at HTX Urology, we provide a clean and comfortable environment for your procedure.

Dr. Dhir performs more than 1000 cystoscopies every year! Dr. Dhir implements on-demand, quick-acting sedation with ProNox (Nitrous Oxide or laughing gas) as an option to help with patient anxiety and comfort. On the same day of your procedure, expect to speak with Dr. Dhir afterward to discuss findings and future treatment options.

What is a Cystoscopy?

A cystoscopy is a procedure where a Urologist uses a small flexible telescope to view the inside of the bladder, prostate, and urethra. This pencil-sized camera is fitted with a light and irrigation fluid to provide an optimal view of the urinary tract. A cystoscopy is vital in helping specialists diagnose and treat urinary tract problems.

Why Undergo a Cystoscopy?

Most patients arrive at a Urology office with complex urinary conditions that have often failed previous medications or therapy by a primary care doctor or ER. A cystoscopy is a modality that allows Dr. Dhir to diagnose the urinary condition properly, which will help guide precise therapy. For example, an enlarged prostate is suspected, a cystoscopy will allow Dr. Dhir to analyze the urinary tract and select the proper procedure or surgery to achieve optimal outcomes based on patient anatomy.

Who is a Good Candidate for Cystoscopy?

A cystoscopy in the office is not only quick but extremely safe. All patients are great candidates for cystoscopy. If patients have mobility issues or have trouble getting onto exam tables, the cystoscopy may have to be scheduled under sedation in an operating room. Speak with your urologist if you have any concerns prior to scheduling.

What Should I Expect During the Cystoscopy Procedure?

A cystoscopy is a quick in-office procedure that usually only lasts several minutes. It is slightly uncomfortable but not painful. Patients will chat with Dr. Dhir afterward to discuss findings and future plans. You will be able to return home immediately following the procedure, and there are no physical limitations afterward.

Prior to the procedure, you will be asked to fully empty your bladder. A medical assistant will position you properly on the procedure table. Next, a cystoscope is inserted through the urethra and gently into the bladder. Sterile water is infused through the cystoscope to fill the bladder and aid in the visualization of the urinary tract – as your bladder stretches you may feel a sensation that you need to urinate.

What Should I Expect After a Cystoscopy?

The view of the bladder should be smooth and of normal size, shape, and position. There should not be any blockages and if there is tissue that appears abnormal or obstructing, a small sample can be biopsied, and most obstructions can be dilated.

After the cystoscope is removed from the urethra, you can expect to feel some mild burning when you urinate for the next 24 hours. Sometimes, blood in the urine is noticed and usually resolves quickly with increased fluid intake. A prophylactic dose of antibiotic is given prior to departure to prevent urinary tract infection.

Contact Our Office

A cystoscopy is very useful in analyzing the urinary tract and quickly diagnosing and treating urinary tract problems. If a physician has suggested you get a cystoscopy performed, or you are interested in learning more about the procedure and how it can help address your most pressing urinary concerns, please contact HTX Urology to schedule your consultation today. Dr. Dhir will gladly address any questions or concerns you may have and expertly guide you through the entire process.