Urology Investigations | Springwood, Brisbane
Flexible Cystoscopy
A flexible cystoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside of your bladder and urethra using a thin, flexible camera.
It is commonly recommended to investigate blood in the urine, certain urinary symptoms and bladder abnormalities.
The examination is usually performed under local anaesthetic and takes only a few minutes. Most patients can return home the same day.
Patient information | Southside Urology, Brisbane Southside
How Does Cystoscopy Work?
A thin camera is passed through the urethra to examine the bladder lining.
Usually local anaesthetic
Numbing gel is commonly applied to the urethra.
Usually a few minutes
Allow extra time for check-in, preparation and discussion.
Usually same-day discharge
Most patients can resume normal activities when comfortable.
Understanding the Procedure
What Is a Flexible Cystoscopy?
Flexible cystoscopy is an examination of the urethra and bladder using a thin, flexible instrument called a cystoscope.
The cystoscope has a small camera and light that allow the urologist to inspect the lining of the urinary tract directly.
The camera enters through the urethra, the tube through which urine leaves the body. There is no external incision.
Sterile fluid is introduced into the bladder to allow the lining to be seen clearly.
Reasons for Investigation
Why Might You Need a Flexible Cystoscopy?
Your urologist may recommend cystoscopy to investigate symptoms or examine an area of the bladder that cannot be fully assessed by other tests.
Blood in the Urine
Cystoscopy is commonly used to investigate visible blood in the urine or selected cases of microscopic haematuria.
Bladder Cancer Surveillance
Patients previously treated for bladder cancer may require regular cystoscopy to monitor for recurrence.
Persistent Urinary Problems
Cystoscopy may help assess unexplained urinary symptoms, pain or suspected abnormalities of the bladder or urethra.
Selected Recurrent UTIs
Some patients with unusual or complicated recurrent UTIs may need cystoscopy. It is not routinely required for uncomplicated recurrent UTIs.
Difficulty Passing Urine
Cystoscopy may assess urethral narrowing, bladder outlet abnormalities or selected causes of obstruction.
Suspicious Bladder Findings
A bladder lesion or unexpected abnormality on ultrasound or CT may need direct visual examination.
Before Your Appointment
How Should I Prepare for Flexible Cystoscopy?
Flexible cystoscopy under local anaesthetic usually requires minimal preparation. Follow the specific instructions from the facility where your procedure is booked.
Eating & Drinking
For a standard flexible cystoscopy under local anaesthetic, you can usually eat and drink normally.
Fasting may be required if sedation or another form of anaesthesia is planned. Follow your booking instructions.
Urine Testing
You may be asked to provide a urine sample before the examination to check for infection.
Contact your treating team if you develop burning urine, fever or symptoms suggesting a urinary infection before the procedure.
Medications
Tell your clinical team about all medications, including warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, aspirin and other blood thinners.
Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by the treating team.
What to Bring
Bring your appointment information, medication list, relevant urine tests, previous imaging and any instructions provided.
Inform your team of medication or local anaesthetic allergies.
On the Day of Your Procedure
The examination typically follows a simple outpatient process. Specific arrangements vary between facilities.
Check-In & Preparation
Your details, medical history and consent are reviewed. You may be asked for a urine sample and to empty your bladder.
Bladder Examination
Local anaesthetic gel is applied and a flexible cystoscope is gently passed through the urethra.
Results & Discharge
The findings and any required follow-up are discussed. Most patients return home the same day.
The Examination
What Happens During Flexible Cystoscopy?
The examination is usually brief. You remain awake when only local anaesthetic is used.
Positioning & Cleaning
You lie on an examination couch. The genital area is cleaned and privacy is maintained throughout.
Local Anaesthetic Gel
Numbing lubricant is placed into the urethra to reduce discomfort as the cystoscope is inserted.
Camera Examination
The flexible camera is gently advanced into the bladder. Sterile fluid helps the urologist inspect the bladder lining.
Completion & Findings
The cystoscope is removed. Your urologist explains the findings and whether further tests or treatment may be needed.
Is Flexible Cystoscopy Painful?
Most patients experience some pressure, discomfort or a brief stinging sensation rather than severe pain.
You may feel an urge to urinate when sterile fluid is introduced into the bladder.
The experience varies. If the examination is particularly uncomfortable, tell the treating clinician immediately.
After Your Examination
What to Expect After Flexible Cystoscopy
Most patients recover quickly following a routine examination under local anaesthetic. Minor urinary symptoms can occur for a short time.
Burning When Urinating
Mild stinging or burning during urination can occur after cystoscopy.
This usually improves within 24–48 hours.
Small Amount of Blood
You may notice pink urine or a small amount of blood after the examination.
This should gradually settle. Heavy or worsening bleeding requires assessment.
Bladder Frequency
Some people temporarily need to pass urine more often or experience bladder urgency.
These symptoms generally improve over the following day or two.
Returning to Normal Activities
If your cystoscopy is performed using local anaesthetic only, you can usually return to ordinary activities when comfortable.
Driving is generally possible after local anaesthetic alone if you feel well and your treating team agrees.
If you receive sedation or general anaesthesia, separate driving and recovery restrictions apply.
Safety & Informed Consent
What Are the Risks of Flexible Cystoscopy?
Flexible cystoscopy is generally a low-risk investigation, but complications can occur. Your individual risks should be discussed before the procedure.
Temporary Effects
Some temporary symptoms may occur after the examination:
- Mild discomfort during urination
- A small amount of blood in urine
- Temporary urinary urgency or frequency
These symptoms generally resolve without further treatment.
Less Common Complications
Possible complications include:
- Urinary tract infection
- Persistent or significant bleeding
- Difficulty passing urine or urinary retention
- Urethral injury and later scarring
- Allergic reaction to local anaesthetic or materials
Serious infection or significant urinary tract injury is uncommon.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek urgent medical assessment after cystoscopy if you develop fever or shaking chills, feel seriously unwell, cannot pass urine, experience severe or increasing pain, or have heavy bleeding or blood clots. Contact your treating team for concerns, or attend an emergency department if symptoms are significant. Call 000 for a life-threatening emergency.
After the Investigation
When Will I Receive My Cystoscopy Results?
The bladder lining is viewed directly during the examination, so your urologist can usually explain the visual findings shortly afterwards.
If the Examination Is Normal
A normal cystoscopy means no concerning abnormality was seen during the examination.
Depending on the reason for your cystoscopy, further tests may still be required to assess the kidneys, ureters or other causes of symptoms.
If an Abnormality Is Found
If a suspicious lesion, tumour or other abnormality is identified, further investigation or treatment may be required.
This may involve biopsy or another procedure under a different anaesthetic arrangement. Your urologist will explain the next steps.
Will I Need Another Cystoscopy?
This depends on why the examination was performed and what was found.
Blood in Urine
Further review depends on the findings, imaging and whether bleeding persists or recurs.
Bladder Cancer
Patients with bladder cancer may require repeated cystoscopy according to a surveillance schedule.
Other Bladder Problems
Follow-up is planned according to symptoms, the diagnosis and any required treatment.
Common Questions
Flexible Cystoscopy FAQs
How long does flexible cystoscopy take?
The examination itself usually takes only a few minutes. Additional time is required for check-in, preparation, consent and discussion of results.
Will I be awake during flexible cystoscopy?
Yes, most flexible cystoscopies are performed under local anaesthetic, so you remain awake. Sedation or other anaesthesia may be considered in selected cases.
Do I need to fast before cystoscopy?
Fasting is generally not required for flexible cystoscopy under local anaesthetic alone. Follow any specific instructions from your treating facility, particularly if sedation or general anaesthesia is planned.
Is flexible cystoscopy painful for men?
Men may experience temporary discomfort or pressure as the camera passes through the urethra and the prostate region. Local anaesthetic gel helps reduce discomfort. Experiences vary between patients.
Is flexible cystoscopy different for women?
The same type of flexible camera can be used in women. Because the female urethra is shorter, the examination may feel different, although some discomfort can still occur.
Can I drive after cystoscopy?
Most patients can drive after a routine flexible cystoscopy under local anaesthetic if they feel well. Driving restrictions apply if sedation or general anaesthesia is used. Follow your discharge instructions.
Can I go back to work afterwards?
Many patients return to normal activities on the same day following local anaesthetic cystoscopy. This depends on your symptoms and the advice of your treating team.
Will I have blood in my urine afterwards?
A small amount of blood can occur temporarily after cystoscopy. Heavy bleeding, clots or bleeding that worsens requires medical assessment.
Can a bladder biopsy be performed during cystoscopy?
Some cystoscopic procedures can include tissue sampling. However, routine diagnostic flexible cystoscopy is usually an examination only. If an abnormality requires biopsy or surgical treatment, a separate procedure may be arranged.
Will I need antibiotics after flexible cystoscopy?
Not everyone requires antibiotics. Your treating clinician will consider your urine results, medical history and individual infection risk when deciding whether antibiotics are appropriate.
Does a normal cystoscopy mean I do not have cancer?
A normal cystoscopy is reassuring for abnormalities visible within the bladder and urethra. However, it does not exclude all urinary tract cancers or other causes of symptoms. Further imaging or investigations may still be appropriate.
Can I have cystoscopy if I have a urinary infection?
An active urinary infection may require treatment before an elective cystoscopy. Tell your treating team if you have fever, burning urine or other possible infection symptoms before the procedure.
Related Urology Information
Explore Related Conditions & Treatments
Flexible cystoscopy is used in the assessment of several urinary tract conditions. Explore these related pages.
Southside Urology | Springwood
Need Advice About Flexible Cystoscopy?
Contact Southside Urology about an appointment to discuss blood in the urine, bladder symptoms, abnormal urinary tract investigations or the need for cystoscopy.
Our team can provide information about consultations and the arrangements for procedures when indicated.
Suite 7/2 Murrajong Road, Springwood QLD 4127.