Cystoscopy is a test in which the doctor passes a thin tube with a camera through the urethra to look directly inside the urethra and bladder. It is used for diagnosis, and sometimes to treat certain conditions at the same time.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Samir Ahmed Al-Samarrai, consultant urologist. Last reviewed:
When it is requested
- Blood in urine, especially visible blood.
- Follow-up of bladder tumours after treatment.
- Repeated urinary infections without a clear cause.
- Difficulty urinating and suspected urethral stricture.
- Removing a ureteric stent or some bladder stones.
Types
- Flexible cystoscopy: a soft tube, usually done in clinic with local anaesthetic.
- Rigid cystoscopy: usually under anaesthesia, allowing biopsies or treatments.
After cystoscopy
Most patients return to normal activity the same day. Drink plenty of water for a day or two. Urinary infection is an uncommon complication, so contact the doctor for fever, severe pain or ongoing bleeding.
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Frequently asked questions
Is cystoscopy painful?
Flexible cystoscopy is usually done with a local anaesthetic gel and causes mild discomfort for a few minutes. Rigid cystoscopy is usually done under anaesthesia.
How long does cystoscopy take?
A diagnostic flexible cystoscopy usually takes 5 to 15 minutes, and you go home the same day.
What should I expect afterwards?
You may have mild burning on passing urine and a little blood in the urine for a day or two. Drink plenty of water, and contact the doctor for fever, ongoing bleeding or inability to pass urine.
Discuss your result with a doctor
Book a consultation with Prof. Al-Samarrai or Dr. Amer Mousa to review your result and plan the next step.
This information is for health education; results should be interpreted with your doctor. See our medical content policy.