Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy enables a direct view of the inside of the urinary bladder and urethra in great detail using an optical scope. There are two types of cystoscope:

Rigid cystoscope

This is a solid straight telescope, which has been in use for many years and is the mainstay of endoscopic treatment of conditions under anaesthetic. It has a high-intensity light source and separate fittings to allow instruments to be introduced.

Flexible cystoscope

This is more commonly used particularly for diagnosis and for the follow up of most bladder tumours. It is a fibre optic instrument that can bend easily and has a manoeuvrable tip that makes it easy to pass along the curves of the urethra. The flexibility means that it can be used under local anaesthetic without undue discomfort.