A cystoscopy test indicates the use of a scope used to examine the bladder in order to help identify any abnormalities with the organ as well as help with any surgeries being performed on the urinary tract. During a cystoscopy test, the organs that are observed include the urethra, the bladder and the ureters which are 2 small tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder and allow the urine to flow from the former to the latter. The areas explored with the help of a flexible cystoscopy would n. ot usually show up well on an X-ray, thereby limiting the decisions that a doctor can make when looking at an x-ray. It is even possible for a doctor to use a set of tiny instruments through the cystoscope to remove sample of tissue or urine, as well as small bladder stones and small growths.
Bladder cystoscopy is performed primarily to identify the root causes of a number of conditions that affect the bladder or the urinary tract as an entire system. Some of the more common conditions that call for a cystoscopy test include urinary incontinence, painful urination, presence of blood in the urine and an inability to pass urine. A cystoscopy can also help in the removal of any growths in the urinary tract as well as relieve blockages in the urethra, while ureteral catheters are commonly used to help the flow of urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
Since there are a variety of cystoscopy tests, the preparation would depend largely on the reason for the procedure, as some cases may require some medication to be administered, other may call for the use of amnesia in the operating room. In most cases, you should avoid consuming anything orally after midnight on the night preceding the procedure. Procedures that are done with local anesthetic do not necessarily require fasting.
About an hour before the cystoscopy, the patient will be administered a sedative to relax. Some other medicines and fluids may also be administered with the help of an intravenous injection inserted into your veins. You will be asked to lie down while your legs are raised and supported by stirrups. The genitals will then be cleaned with the help of an antiseptic solution and the abdomen and thighs covered with sterile cloths. A lubricated cystoscope is then inserted into your urethra and cautiously guided into your bladder where sterile water is injected. The instrument will remain in your bladder for a maximum of 10 minutes, while the readings and measurements are being recorded, after which it is removed.