Flexible Cystoscopy

A thin, flexible telescope is used to look inside the bladder and lower urinary tract - a brief, gentle office procedure that provides important diagnostic information.

Why it is done

Flexible cystoscopy is commonly recommended for:

  • Blood in the urine (visible or microscopic).
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections.
  • Persistent bladder symptoms such as urgency or frequency.
  • Follow-up of previously treated bladder conditions.
  • Surveillance after ureteric stone treatment.

What to expect

The procedure is performed in the rooms and takes only a few minutes. Local anaesthetic gel is used in the urethra for comfort. A very thin, flexible telescope is then passed into the bladder to give a clear video view. Most patients describe only mild pressure or the urge to pass urine.

Afterwards

  • Most people drive themselves home and return to normal activities straight away.
  • You may notice a little pink in the urine and mild stinging for a day - drinking extra fluids helps.
  • Dr Kooner will discuss the findings immediately and arrange any further investigations if needed.
  • Fever or increasing pain should be reported promptly.
Preparation: a fresh urine sample is often requested beforehand to rule out infection. You can eat and drink normally on the day.

Your journey - what to expect

  1. Referral & triage

    Dr Kooner reviews your referral and any imaging or urine results, then books the cystoscopy in the rooms - often at the same visit as your consultation where practical.

  2. On the day

    A fresh urine sample is checked. You are comfortably positioned and anaesthetic gel is placed. The flexible cystoscope is passed gently, and the bladder and urethra are inspected on a video screen.

  3. Discussion of findings

    Findings are explained immediately, often with images. A plan is made for any follow-up imaging, biopsy, or treatment as required.

  4. Recovery

    You leave the rooms straight away. Mild stinging and a little pink urine may occur for a day and settle with extra fluids.

Risks & considerations

  • Mild stinging or pink urine for 24 hours - common and self-limiting.
  • Urinary tract infection - uncommon; a pre-procedure urine check reduces the risk.
  • Temporary difficulty passing urine - rare, usually settles with extra fluids.

Seek medical attention promptly for fever, chills, increasing pain, or inability to pass urine.

Frequently asked questions

Is flexible cystoscopy painful?

Most patients describe only mild pressure and the urge to pass urine. Anaesthetic gel is used in the urethra for comfort, and the flexible scope is much gentler than older rigid instruments.

Do I need a general anaesthetic?

No - flexible cystoscopy is performed in the rooms under local anaesthetic gel. You can drive yourself home afterwards.

How long does the appointment take?

The cystoscopy itself takes only a few minutes. Overall, expect to be in the rooms for approximately 20-30 minutes, including discussion of findings.

Can I eat and drink beforehand?

Yes. There are no fasting requirements. Keep well hydrated before and after the procedure.

Speak with Dr Kooner's rooms

Arrange a consultation or request a second opinion on kidney cancer, stones, or reconstructive kidney surgery.