About Cystoscopy for Bladder Conditions
A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows us to slip a tiny camera inside the bladder to look at the condition of the lining. The camera and a small light source are at the end of a thin, flexible tube.
This procedure is performed in the doctor’s office while you are awake. The images are delivered to a television monitor, so you may see the images, too. That allows us to show you what we find and to explain recommendations for next steps in your care.
Cystoscopy helps evaluate any condition that might affect the lining of your bladder, including chronic infections, inflammation, stones, or tumors.
Risks of cystoscopy
Complications with cystoscopy are rare. Because a foreign object is going into the bladder, mild pain and infection are possible. The cystoscope may irritate the urethra as it moves through and mild bleeding may occur. That is usually remedied by drinking a little more water for a day or two.
Current as of: 2/2020
Stanford Health Education, 2020