Cystourethroscopy - Comprehensive Information on Definition, Reasons and Preparation for Cystourethroscopy
What is Cystourethroscopy
Is a common question amongst people that hear of the procedure for the first time. A Cystourethroscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor or licensed health care provider to view the insides of the patients bladder and urethra, thereby giving them essential information about the organs that will help them make an informed decision about the best treatment and surgical operations to correct the problem. It is performed using a cystoscope, which is a small tube that has a camera at the end. Also known as cystoscope, the procedure will usually be performed by a urologist and will also help detect any abnormalities in the lower urinary tract.
Other benefits of the procedure include the fact that it also allows physicians to extract samples of tissue and urine as well as remove small stones or growths from these organs. There are two variants of the procedure- the rigid cystorethroscopy and the flexible cystorethroscopy where the only real difference is the method of insertion. The rigid method will require the patient to lie on his or her back with the knees up and apart, while flexible cystorethroscopy does not require the patient to remain in this position.
Reasons for Cystourethroscopy
There are a number of reasons as to why your urologist may recommend that you undergo a Cystourethroscopy. Conditions like the presence of blood in the urine, suffering from a urinary tract infection, an inability to control urination as well as a suspicion of presence of tumors in the bladder may all require a cystorethroscopy to be performed. In most cases, the measurements and readings obtained through a flexible cystorethroscopy will be combined with those of the x-rays that are usually taken before the procedure and the combined data is what the urologist or doctor usually looks at when making a decision.
Preparation for Cystourethroscopy
Before commencing the procedure, the patient may be required to provide a urine sample to check for infection. The patient may also be asked to avoid urinating up to an hour before the sample has been taken. A sedative will also be administered in order to help the patient relax. Depending on the case, spinal or general anesthetic will be applied as the distention of the bladder is quite painful considering the instrument is inserted into the bladder via the urethra, which is the tube that transports urine out of the body. The procedure will usually last no longer than about 10 to 40 minutes.
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