A closer look inside
Cystoscopy is a quick, in-office diagnostic procedure that lets us see directly inside your bladder. It requires no preparation, is done under local anesthesia, takes about 90 seconds, and you can drive yourself home afterward.
Understanding cystoscopy
A cystoscopy is a procedure where a small lighted tube is placed into the bladder through the urethra under local anesthesia. The tube is connected to a camera, so both you and your physician can see inside your bladder in real time on a monitor. The bladder is filled with water during the study to provide a clear view of the bladder wall and identify any abnormalities.
See it before you do it
These educational videos explain the cystoscopy procedure step by step. Watching ahead of time helps many patients feel more comfortable.
The essentials
Everything you need to know about your cystoscopy appointment at a glance.
Quick
The actual procedure takes ~90 seconds. Plan to be at the appointment about 30 minutes total.
Comfortable
Local anesthesia is used — no sedation, no anesthesia recovery time required.
No prep needed
No special preparation required before your appointment. Eat normally, drink normally.
Drive yourself
You can drive yourself to and from the appointment — no driver required.
When cystoscopy is recommended
Cystoscopy is performed to inspect the bladder for tumors, ulcers, and other anatomical abnormalities that can’t be identified by other means. It’s an essential diagnostic tool for several conditions.
Bladder Cancer Evaluation
The gold standard for visualizing and diagnosing bladder tumors and abnormalities
Learn more →Interstitial Cystitis
Helps identify Hunner’s ulcers and characteristic bladder wall changes
Learn more →Recurrent UTI Workup
Looks for structural causes contributing to recurring infections
Learn more →Bladder Stones
Identifies stones and other foreign material inside the bladder
Learn more →Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
Determines the source when blood appears in urine without clear explanation
Unexplained Bladder Symptoms
When persistent urinary symptoms need direct visual evaluation
What to expect
The process is straightforward. Here’s what happens from start to finish.
Arrive & check in
No prep needed. Arrive at your scheduled appointment time. Plan for about 30 minutes total.
Local anesthesia
A local anesthetic gel is applied to numb the area before the procedure begins.
The procedure
The cystoscope is gently inserted. The bladder is filled with water for clear visualization. You’ll see the screen too.
Go home
Once complete (~90 seconds), you can drive yourself home and resume normal activities.
Normal aftereffects & when to call
What’s normal
When to reach out
Schedule your cystoscopy.
If your provider has recommended cystoscopy, or you have symptoms that may warrant one, schedule an appointment with our urology team. We’ll explain everything in advance and make the process as comfortable as possible.