Flexible CystosCopy

PI2011087Information for patientsFlexible CystoscopyHamstel RoadHarlow, EssexCM20 1QXTel: 01279 444455IntroductionA cystoscopy is a medical procedure used toexamine the inside of the bladder.It’s carried out using a cystoscope, a thin,fibreoptic tube that has a light and a camera atone end.The cystoscope is inserted into the urethra andis moved up into the bladder (the urethra is thetube that carries urine from the bladder, out ofthe body). The camera relays images to a screenwhere they can be seen by the urologist (specialistin treating bladder conditions).There are two types of cystoscope:◗◗flexible cystoscope – a thin, flexible tube usedto look inside your bladder and, if necessary,carry out biopsies or minor treatments◗◗rigid cystoscope – a thin, straight metaltube that’s used for passing small surgicalinstruments down through the cystoscopeto remove a tissue sample or to carry outtreatment.Most cystoscopies are performed as outpatientprocedures, so you'll be able to go home on thesame day. (If you require a rigid cystoscopy youwill be admitted to hospital.)What does having thetreatment involve?When it’s time for you to have the procedure,you’ll be asked to empty your bladder by goingto the toilet. You may also be given an injectionof antibiotics to reduce your risk of developinga bladder infection.If you are having a local anaesthetic, ananaesthetic gel will be applied into your urethrato numb it. A general anaesthetic/epidural will berequired for a rigid cystoscopy.The cystoscope is lubricated with a special gelbefore being gently inserted into your urethraand passed into your bladder. Sterile water will beadministered through the cystoscope to expandyour bladder. This enables the urologist (specialistin treating bladder conditions) to get a clearerview inside your bladder.The cystoscope is usually kept in your bladderfor between two and ten minutes whilst theexamination takes place.What to expect duringa cystoscopy?People are often concerned that having a tubeinserted into their urethra and up into theirbladder will be painful. A cystoscopy isn’t usuallypainful, but it may sometimes be uncomfortable.If you’re having a cystoscopy under a localanaesthetic, you may feel a burning sensation andan urge to urinate when the cystoscope is insertedinto and then removed from your urethra.You may also feel an uncomfortable sensationof fullness and a need to urinate when water ispumped into your bladder to expand it.If you have any mobility problems, or any otherspecial needs, please let us know in advance sothat we can make any necessary arrangements toaccommodate you.What is a cystoscopy used for?A cystoscopy can be used to investigate and treatsymptoms and conditions that affect the bladderand urinary system. For example, it can be used to:◗◗◗◗◗◗check for abnormalities in the bladderremove a sample of bladder tissue for furthertesting (a biopsy) in cases of suspected cancertreat certain bladder conditions, such asremoving small bladder stones.Complications of a cystoscopyIt’s rare to experience serious complicationsafter a cystoscopy, but you should contact yourGP or hospital staff if you’re having difficultypassing urine for more than eight hours after theprocedure.continued overleaf

There’s also a low risk of developing a urinarytract infection (UTI) that affects your urethra,bladder or kidneys. You should see your GP if youexperience symptoms of infection such as a hightemperature (fever) of 38ºC (100.4ºF) or above.Where can I get moreinformation?NHS Choiceshttp://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Cystoscopy/Pages/Introduction.aspxPAH Hospitals cannot accept responsibility forinformation provided by external organisationsContact detailsMain switchboard: 01279 444455Oak Unit (urology services)St Margaret's Hospital, The Plain, Epping CM16 6TNTel: 01279 444455 extension 5407EGGHALLMALTINGWOOD MEADSTIDY'SFAIRFIELD RDLA NEBIR CH VWPALMERS HILL B1393 THORNWOODto M11THE PLAINTHE PLAINTHE PLAINTHEWOODYARDSt. St. Margaret'sHospitalEPPINGAny other questions?...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................Meeting 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