Flexible Cystoscopy

As part of the investigation for many urological conditions, it may be necessary to look inside the bladder with a small flexible telescopic camera called a cystoscope. This is performed at Urology Associates as a minor procedure. 

The cystoscopy is not usually painful although it can be uncomfortable. Usually, once the instrument has reached the bladder, the discomfort ceases.

There is no special preparation for this procedure. You may eat and drink before the examination and you may drive home afterwards.

Following a cystoscopy:

• In the first few hours after the test, it is useful to drink extra fluids (approximately 2-3 drinks)
• Stinging in the urethra can also be experienced the first couple of times you pass urine after a flexible cystoscopy
• Occasionally there is a small amount of blood the first time you pass urine after this test

Infection is uncommon but can occasionally occur. If you feel you may have an infection, contact Urology Associates.

Meet the team

Our team of specialists combine to deliver excellence in urology healthcare. We offer the greatest breadth of urological expertise of any urology practice in New Zealand. As well as caring for the urological problems of men such as prostate cancer and sexual dysfunction, we also offer comprehensive treatment of female urology and pelvic health as well as the care of children.

Our partnerships

Bleeding

Bleeding severe enough to bring you back to the hospital is rare. This risk disappears when healing is complete, 6-8 weeks after surgery. If you have fresh heavy bleeding that does not stop or if you are unable to pass your urine at all it may be due to a blood clot blocking the urethra. If either of these unlikely events should occur you should contact your surgeon or GP immediately, or go to your nearest Emergency Department.

Incontinence

Incontinence, or leakage of urine without control, may occur temporarily and last for a few weeks. Urgency is common. If you have any incontinence after your operation you will be given information and instructions about exercises that you can do to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.

Urethral stricture

In a small number of cases, narrowing may develop in the urethra. This may occur either near the tip of the penis or further up the urethra several months after the operation. You may notice your urinary stream, which was better after the operation, slows down again. Please mention this problem to your doctor. If detected early, and treated with gentle stretching under local anaesthetic, most strictures resolve. An operation to cut open the tight area may be appropriate.

Sexual function

If you are sexually active before the operation, once your recovery is complete, you should expect a return to your sexual function. Loss of sexual function is very rare after this surgery.