Why Is Cystoscopy Performed?

This imaging procedure, which is performed to examine structures such as the urinary tract, urinary bladder (bladder) and prostate and, if necessary, to treat them, is performed for the following reasons.

• Damage caused by urinary tract infection,
• Urinary tract obstruction and infections,
• Intra-bladder stones, polyps, tumors, infections and damages,
• Urinary tract and bladder bleeding,
• Prostate enlargement,
• Urethra (lower urinary tract) strictures,
• Anatomical and physiological congenital defects,
• Urinary incontinence,

Cystoscopy (bladder imaging) is typically   a diagnostic procedure, but it is also used therapeutically in some cases. It can be performed as a simple outpatient procedure under local anesthesia or in the operating room under general anesthesia.

Based on the above, cystoscopy is a procedure that allows examination of the inner lining of the bladder, the prostate's relationship with the urethra, and the urethra. This method is used to diagnose, monitor, and treat conditions affecting the bladder, prostate, and urethra.   It is beneficial for individuals to undergo  cystoscopy without hesitation if they have any concerns. At Private Ankara Magnet Hospital, your entire treatment process is performed by our expert team in our Urology  Department using state-of-the-art medical equipment.

How is Cystoscopy Performed?

Specialized devices are crucial in cystoscopy. These devices come in two types: rigid and flexible. Flexible  cystoscopy  offers the advantages of a flexible cystoscopy device, along with its smaller diameter, less pain, and greater patient comfort, allowing for detailed visualization of every part of the bladder. Cystoscopy, performed under general or local anesthesia, is a comfortable procedure.

Initially, the cystoscope is advanced through the urethra into the bladder. It's important to note that during the procedure, a prepared serum is administered through the cystoscope. This serum provides visibility of the cystoscope's location, and the fluid fills the bladder. This allows the bladder wall to be stretched, allowing the bladder surface to be observed.

During the procedure, the patient remains in the lithotomy position. This position is used for procedures involving the pelvis, lower abdomen, vaginal area, and anorectal area.

What are the Types of Cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy can be divided into several types based on different needs. There are two main types of cystoscopy:

Digital Cystoscopy : This procedure uses digital technology to visually examine the bladder and urethra. High-resolution cameras provide more detailed images, allowing for clearer identification of bladder problems.

Rigid Cystoscopy : This type of  cystoscopy , performed using a rigid tube , is generally preferred for deeper, more detailed examinations. The rigid cystoscope is particularly useful for evaluating more serious conditions, such as large hemorrhages or masses.

In Which Diseases Is Cystoscopy Used?

One of the most common reasons for a cystoscopy is blood in the urine. Cystoscopy is performed to determine the cause of bleeding and make a diagnosis.

In addition to bleeding, another procedure is for the regular monitoring of urinary tract cancers.  Cystoscopy can also be performed to detect urinary tract strictures, urinary tract infections, and tumors, as well as to diagnose prostate enlargement, prostate tumors, bladder stones, tumors and inflammations, internal urinary tract obstructions, and urinary incontinence  .

Urologists may perform urologic cystoscopy in cases of blood in the urine, urinary incontinence, painful urination, overactive bladder, inability to insert a catheter, persistent urinary tract infections, trauma, injuries, and foreign body removal. Patients should not hesitate to undergo cystoscopy and complete the procedure.

What is Cystoscopy? Is It Harmful?

Cystoscopy  is a necessary medical procedure performed for therapeutic purposes. If performed correctly by a qualified urologist and in a hygienic environment, it will not cause any harm. On the contrary, it is a very useful diagnostic procedure.

After the cystoscopy procedure, the patient must take meticulous care of themselves. In some cases, various complications may occur due to negligence by the patient or doctor, but as long as such conditions are avoided, it is an extremely beneficial treatment method rather than a harmful one.

Patients experiencing problems such as bladder cancer, bladder prolapse, or urinary tract obstruction should undergo cystoscopy for treatment and monitoring. This procedure allows for early detection of any existing disease in these areas, allowing treatment to begin.

Cystoscopy Side Effects and Advantages

When asked what cystoscopy is, we can answer the question: It's a procedure that allows a detailed view of the inside of the bladder and urethra. It can also be interpreted as the use of a cystoscope to examine the bladder.

Cystoscopy is also used to examine the bladder for abnormalities or to assist with surgical procedures performed on the urinary tract. When performed meticulously by a qualified urologist, problems are unlikely. It's important to note that side effects can occur if the patient doesn't follow proper post-procedure care.

While cystoscopy  is generally a safe and easy procedure, it's normal to experience some side effects. Side effects of cystoscopy include:

• Bright pink blood in the urine after the procedure
• Burning and difficulty urinating after application
• More frequent urination over the next day or two

The side effects of cystoscopy are as described above and generally resolve on their own within a few days. If these side effects persist, the patient should definitely consult a specialist.

Things to Consider Before Cystoscopy

• If you are taking any medications, have any allergies, or have any medical conditions, be sure to inform your doctor. Your doctor may adjust your dosage as recommended, especially if you are taking blood thinners.
• Cystoscopy is usually performed with local anesthesia, but in some cases, general anesthesia may be required. In this case, you may need to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions.
• Some patients are advised to drink plenty of water before the procedure, but avoid excessive fluid intake.
• Since cystoscopy is usually an outpatient procedure, it is recommended that you wear comfortable clothes.
• If you have general anesthesia, you may need to rest for a while after the procedure. Therefore, it is important to have someone accompany you to the hospital and assist you in returning home.

What is Blue Light Cystoscopy (Photodynamics)?

Blue light  cystoscopy is an innovative method used to detect conditions such as bladder cancer. In this technique, a photodynamic agent is injected into the patient and absorbed by cancer cells. Subsequently, during the blue light examination, this agent is photoactivated only by cancer cells, highlighting cancerous areas.

This method   allows for more precise detection of cancerous areas than traditional cystoscopy , helping to visualize the disease more clearly, even in its early stages. Blue light cystoscopy is often preferred to prevent cancer recurrence and optimize treatment.

Before Cystoscopy with General Anesthesia

Cystoscopy, performed under general anesthesia, puts the patient completely asleep. Patients are typically required to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure. Furthermore, any medications will be checked, as directed by the doctor.

Before Cystoscopy with Local Anesthesia

Cystoscopy performed with local anesthesia is generally performed for shorter, simpler procedures. In this procedure, only the urinary tract area is numbed, allowing the patient to remain awake but not feel pain during the procedure. A fasting period is generally not required for local anesthesia, but the doctor's recommendations regarding fluid intake before the procedure should be followed.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the Cystoscopy Prices? What is the Price of Flexible Cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy  prices may vary depending on the procedure, the anesthesia used, and whether additional procedures (such as biopsy or stone removal) are performed. For cystoscopy pricing, visit Ankara Magnet Hospital to see our Urologist or call us to schedule an appointment. With our experienced physicians and state-of-the-art equipment, we provide our patients with reliable and high-quality service.  

• What are the possible complications after cystoscopy?

As with any procedure, cystoscopy can lead to some undesirable consequences if not performed under appropriate conditions. Post-cystoscopy can cause mild bleeding, urinary tract infection, burning sensation in the urine, and trauma to the urethra and bladder.

In order to avoid these complications, it is very important that the specialist doctor performing the cystoscopy procedure is experienced and that the conditions of the unit where the procedure is performed are suitable.

• What Should I Pay Attention to After Cystoscopy?

 Patients should exercise great caution after cystoscopy . Sedation or general anesthesia, in particular, requires a period of time for the patient to fully recover after the procedure.

• Does Cystoscopy Hurt? Is It a Painful Procedure?

Because the patient is anesthetized, there is no pain or discomfort during the procedure. However, some pain may occur after the procedure due to the patient straining while urinating. This pain is particularly noticeable during urination.

• How Long Does Post-Cystoscopy Bleeding Last?

Post-cystoscopy bleeding generally lasts about one day. In some cases, this can last up to several days. If bleeding is severe or persists for more than two days, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

• Should Cystoscopy be Performed on Women? If so, why?

Yes,  cystoscopy  is performed on women. It is generally performed for urinary tract injuries, frequent urination or urinary incontinence, suspected gynecological cancer, vaginal urination, dribbling after urination, recurrent urinary tract infections, and injection treatments for urinary  incontinence  .

• How Long Does It Take to Get Results After Cystoscopy?

The urologist performing the procedure generally reports the cystoscopy results immediately after the procedure. If a sample is collected for pathological examination, the results are usually available within a few days.

• What is the Recovery Process Like After Cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy is not a difficult procedure, but rather a simple one. When performed by trusted hands and in a reliable healthcare facility, the likelihood of complications is extremely low. Patients generally return to their daily activities within a few days.

• Cystoscopy Private Hospital

This procedure, which is performed to visualize the inside of the urinary tract, is also performed in private hospitals. 

• Cystoscopy Ankara

Cystoscopy  is performed in many public and private healthcare institutions in Ankara. At Ankara Magnet Hospital, it is also performed by our specialist physicians in the Urology Department.

• Are There Any Harms to Cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy is generally a safe procedure, and serious side effects are rare. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks and potential harms.  The most common side effects after cystoscopy  include temporary pain, a burning sensation during urination, bleeding, or a urinary tract infection.

• How Long Does Cystoscopy Take?

Cystoscopy is generally known as a quick and short procedure. In most cases, it takes only 10-30 minutes. However, the procedure time can vary depending on the extent of the examination and whether any treatment is performed. If an additional procedure is required during the cystoscopy (such as a stone removal or biopsy), the procedure may take slightly longer.

• Is Cystoscopy Surgery? Is There a Hospital Stay After Cystoscopy?

Cystoscopy is generally not considered a surgical procedure because it is minimally invasive. It is an endoscopic examination, usually performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes rather than surgery. During cystoscopy, the inside of the bladder and urinary tract is visualized using a small camera, allowing the diagnosis of potential diseases, infections, or structural problems to be identified. Cystoscopy is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients can be discharged from the hospital the same day. However, depending on the type of anesthesia used and the extent of the procedure, patients may require a short hospital stay. If general anesthesia is administered or additional surgery is performed, patients may remain in the hospital for several hours for monitoring.

• Can Cystoscopy Be Performed on Virgins?

Yes, cystoscopy can be performed on virgins. Cystoscopy is a procedure performed to examine the bladder and urethra, and sexual intercourse does not affect its suitability. During cystoscopy, a tube is inserted into the urethra to visualize the bladder. This procedure is generally safe, and virginity is not a barrier.

• How is Cystoscopy Performed in Men?

In men  , cystoscopy is an endoscopic procedure used to examine the bladder and urethra. During the procedure, a thin tube (cystoscope) is used to access areas such as the urethra and bladder.

• Does Social Security cover cystoscopy?

Yes,  SGK  (Social Security Institution) generally  covers cystoscopy  , but certain conditions may vary. For more information, please visit our Ankara Private Magnet Hospital.

• Sexuality After Cystoscopy

Depending on the patient's condition before and after the procedure, sexual intercourse is not recommended for 3-7 days after the procedure.

February, 2025