A cystoscopy is performed by the urologist to have a close look at the bladder, urethra (the canal from which you pass urine) and in males the inside of the prostate gland.

It is done by passing a thin, flexible, telescopic instrument called a cystoscope, through the urethra and into the bladder. Lubricating gel that contains local anaesthetic is used to numb the area and guide the cystoscope up into the bladder. This means that you do not need to be put to sleep for the procedure and there are no injections or needles used.

WHY IS A FLEXIBLE CYSTOSCOPY REQUIRED?

A flexible cystoscopy is required to see what is going on in the bladder and urethra. It is useful in seeing if stones are in the bladder and to detect any changes in the bladder lining, such as inflammation, infection, cancer or scarring. It is also used in men to see if there is any enlargement of the prostate gland which can cause a blockage and make it difficult to pass urine.

During a flexible cystoscopy, treatments can also be given. If necessary the doctor can take tissue samples (biopsies) or remove stents (a small internal tube) from patients who have had these put in during previous surgery.