A cystoscopy is used to obtain an inside view of the urethra and bladder using a long thin lighten instrument known as a cystoscope. The cystoscope is passed into the bladder through the urethra and as it is inserted is allows the physician to take a look at the interiors of the bladder and urethra, which cannot be seen in x-rays. Other small instruments can also be inserted through the channels of the cystoscope which enables the physician to obtain samples of urine or tissue which are then analyzed further in the laboratory. Small abnormal growths and bladder stones may also be extracted during a cystoscopy, thereby eliminating the need for further surgery.
There are several conditions for which a cystoscopy may be recommended. Urinary problems such as blood in the urine, pain while urinating, increased frequency of urination, difficulties in passing urine and urgency in urination are some of the conditions for which a cystoscopy may be performed. This procedure may also be recommended in case of recurring urinary tract infections, obstruction of the urethra due to tumors, kidney stones or prostate enlargement, presence of foreign objects, blockage or bleeding of the urinary tract and to examine problems that may have been detected by other tests such as ultrasounds. A cystoscopy would be imperative when a biopsy needs to be done or when the flow of urine from kidneys to bladder needs to be helped through stents.
A cystoscope is done by inserting a small scope, called a cystoscope through the opening of the urethra. This procedure is done differently in men and women. In women it is a relatively painless procedure and is usually done with anesthesia. The scope may be slightly lubricated to allow it to insert the urethral opening easily. Most women do not experience any pain. The cystoscope is inserted into the urethra which is the small slit-like opening that is just above the larger opening of the vagina. As such the vaginal opening remains untouched and so there is no cause for concern. You could also discuss the matter with your doctor so that all doubts may be cleared prior to the procedure. For men, this procedure could cause some amount of pain due to the anatomy of the urethra. The urethra is narrow and long in men and as such a greater level of discomfort may be experienced during the procedure. However, today the instruments used in cystoscopy procedures are smaller and more flexible. This combined with the use of local anesthesia is helpful in reducing the level of pain and discomfort.
Submitted by M T on February 25, 2010 at 12:54