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In this Article

• What is a cystoscopy?
• What is a ureteroscopy?
• What are the preparations for a cystoscopy or ureteroscopy?
• How is a cystoscopy or ureteroscopy performed?
• What happens after a cystoscopy or ureteroscopy?
• Points to remember about cystoscopies and ureteroscopies
• Hope through research
• Where can I find more information about cystoscopy and ureteroscopy?
• Find a local Urologist in your town
• Cystoscopy and Ureteroscopy Index

Points to remember

• Cystoscopy and ureteroscopy are procedures used to view the inside of the bladder, urethra, and possibly the ureters.



• A cystoscope is an instrument used to examine the urethra and bladder.



• A ureteroscope is an instrument used to examine the ureters.



• Before a cystoscopy or ureteroscopy, patients should



• talk with their doctor to ask questions and receive instructions



• sign a consent form



• avoid urinating for about an hour before giving a urine sample if one is required



• arrange for a ride home if general or spinal anesthetic will be used



• After a cystoscopy or ureteroscopy, patients should



• drink two 8-ounce glasses of water each hour for 2 hours



• ask about taking a bath or using a warm, damp washcloth to relieve the burning feeling



• report any problems, such as



• bloody urine that lasts more than 24 hours after the test



• severe pain



• chills



• fever

Hope through research

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) has many research programs aimed at understanding kidney and urologic disorders, including urinary stones, enlarged prostate, urinary incontinence, and kidney failure. The NIDDK sponsors researchers developing advanced diagnostic equipment, such as cystoscopes that can examine bladder tissue at the microscopic level. This technology may in some cases eliminate the need for biopsy.

Participants in clinical trials can play a more active role in their own health care, gain access to new research treatments before they are widely available, and help others by contributing to medical research. For information about current studies, visit www.ClinicalTrials.gov.