Cystoscopy
What will be done?
This procedure will permit visualisation of the internal aspects of the bladder and urethra. It may be combined with specific treatment, such as the removal or insertion of a urethral catheter or biopsy.
Why is this done?
Common reasons include the assessment of pelvic pain, recurrent urinary tract infections, urinary symptoms or in combination with other abdominal surgical procedures, such as the excision of endometriosis. You should have a clear understanding of your reason for this surgery.
How is this done?
The procedure is normally performed under a general anaesthetic. A drip is inserted into your arm. An examination is performed under anaesthesia. A telescope (the cystoscope) is passed through the urethra to visualise the internal aspects of the urethra and bladder. A sample of the lining (a biopsy) may be obtained or specific therapy undertaken. This procedure does not involve any abdominal incisions. The procedure itself takes approximately ten minutes or more, but you can expect to be in theatre and recovery for a number of hours. A catheter (a tube) may be inserted into the bladder and this may need to be maintained for a variable period of time.
What should I do before the procedure?
Any investigations or consultations arranged at the preoperative consultation should have been completed. You should continue your regular medications, unless advised otherwise. Stop smoking. Should you develop an illness prior to your surgery, please contact our office immediately.
What should I do on the day of the procedure?
Unless otherwise specified, you should stop eating and drinking at the following times on the day of the surgery:
- At midnight for a morning procedure; or
- At 6 am for an afternoon procedure
You should continue all your usual medications, unless otherwise specified.
You should bring:
- Toothbrush / paste / toiletries
- Nightgown
- Underwear
- Sanitary pads
- All usual medications
- All X Rays
What should I expect after the procedure?
When you wake from the anaesthetic, you will be in the recovery room. There may be a catheter in the bladder and there may be blood stained urine in the bag. Depending on the procedure, you should be able to leave that day. You should expect some pelvic discomfort and may have some pain passing urine. Your urine may be blood stained for a short period of time. You will be given specific discharge medication if required, but you may use panadol or panadeine as Irequired (one to two tablets every four hours up to a maximum of eight tablets per day).
After discharge from hospital
you should:
- Eat and drink normally
- Temain mobile
- Use sanitary pads (not tampons) if required
- Shower normally
You should not:
undertake any unsupervised activity on the day of the procedure
You should be able to return to work the following day, but may require more time off work, depending on the procedure performed.
What are the complications of this procedure?
Every surgical procedure has associated risks. Complications include, but are not limited to:
- The anaesthetic
- The surgery perforation of the uterus with consequent injuries to internal organs or blood vessels, requiring further surgery, blood transfusion or longer admission
- The recovery period infections of the bladder, wound (internal and external), abdomen or lungs; blood clots that may form in the leg or pelvis and travel to the lung; unpredictable wound heal ing; var iable postoperative pain and recovery; nausea, vomiting or pain necessitating overnight admission
Any specific risks and complications will be discussed prior to the procedure
What if I have any problems?
You should notify the following problems:
- Fever or feeling unwell
- Severe pain passing urine
- Increasing blood in the urine
- Inability to empty your bladder or bowels
- Offensive vaginal discharge or heavy bleeding
- Intractable nausea or vomiting
- Severe pain
Please contact the office on (07) 333 21 999 or attend the Mater Emergency Department if you require urgent attention. |
