Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy is an endoscopic (telescope) evaluation of the bladder that may be performed in the office. This evaluation can be performed in the office or in the operating room under anesthesia with a flexible or rigid cystoscope. This study takes typically a minute or two to perform on a female patient and pain if it occurs is on the level of a PAP smear. You may take your regular medications prior to the procedure but depending on your health/medical history, you may require an antibiotic. Cystoscopy enables the urologist to check the bladder for abnormalities such as bladder tumors, inflammation or diverticula (out-pouching of the bladder muscle). Occasionally causes of urinary incontinence (leaking) may be evaluated at the time of cystoscopy as well.