Download and print as a PDF
DownloadIt is a visual examination of the inside of the bladder. It is performed using either a general anaesthetic, where you are asleep, or a spinal anaesthetic, where you have no feeling below the waist.
A cystoscopy can help to diagnose the causes of symptoms such as:
Other reasons when you need a rigid cystoscopy are when:
You will be asleep during the procedure so that any further interventions such as biopsies etc can be done easily. You will be informed of this prior to your procedure.
Rigid cystoscopies are usually performed without any complications. However, as with any other procedure, there are potential complications. This will be discussed with you by your doctor prior to signing the consent form.
Specific risks that could be expected are as follows:
The procedure will be done under general or spinal anaesthesia. You will not have any pain or discomfort during the procedure. The cystoscope will be passed through your urethra (waterpipe) into your bladder. A biopsy will be taken if needed. Sometimes you may need a catheter which may be removed later on the ward or next day. The procedure would normally take about 10 minutes. You will then be taken to recovery unit until the anaesthetic wears off. Once you are awake you will then be transferred to the ward. Most patients will go home on the same day. Make sure you have someone to drive you home and someone to stay with you overnight.
The doctor will be able to tell you the results straight after the procedure. If you have biopsy taken then then it will be sent for analysis and the results can take up to 3-4 weeks.
We advise you to contact your general practitioner if after discharge from hospital you suffer from:
The Princess Royal Hospital:
Ansty ward 01444 441881, extension 68240 / 68241.
The Urology Nursing Team: 01444 441881, extension 65457.
Urology Consultants:
Mr Nawrocki’s secretary 01444 441881 ,extension 65962.
Mr Coker’s secretary 01444 441881, extension 68043.
Mr Crawford’s secretary 01444 441881, extension 65962.
Mr Symes’ secretary 01273 696955, extension 67809.
Mr Larner’s secretary 01273 696955 , extension 67808.
Mr Alanbuki’s secretary 01273 696955 , extension 67810.
Mr Zakikhani’s secretary 01273 696955 , extension 67809.
This information is intended for patients receiving care in Brighton & Hove or Haywards Heath.
The information here is for guidance purposes only and is in no way intended to replace professional clinical advice by a qualified practitioner.
Publication Date: November 2021
Review Date: August 2024