Rigid Cystoscopy (male)

This webpage will give you information about a rigid cystoscopy (for men). If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.

What is a rigid cystoscopy?

A rigid cystoscopy is a procedure to check for any problems in your bladder using a rigid fibre-optic telescope (cystoscope). Sometimes certain problems with the bladder and urinary tubes can be treated at the same time. It may be recommended if you are getting blood in your urine, repeated infections or have an irritable bladder (a sudden and uncontrolled urge to pass urine).

Are there any alternatives to a rigid cystoscopy?

A scan may give some information about the cause of the problem. It is possible to have a flexible cystoscopy that only needs an anaesthetic jelly. However, certain problems with the bladder and urinary tubes cannot be treated with a flexible cystoscopy.

What does the procedure involve?

A rigid cystoscopy is usually performed under a general or spinal anaesthetic and usually takes less than half an hour. Your doctor will pass the cystoscope into your bladder through your urethra (see figure 1).

Cross-section of the male pelvic region showing a rigid cystoscopy

Figure 1 - Cross-section of the male pelvic region showing a rigid cystoscopy.

They will use the cystoscope to look for any problems in the lining of your bladder and perform biopsies if needed. If your doctor finds a small growth, it may be possible to remove it using the cystoscope.

What complications can happen?

Bleeding
Infection
Narrowing of the urethra
Making a hole in the bladder

How soon will I recover?

You should be able to go home the same day, after you have recovered from the anaesthetic and passed urine. You should be able to go back to work the day after the cystoscopy unless you are told otherwise. A member of the team will tell you what was found during the cystoscopy and will discuss with you any treatment or follow-up you need.

Summary

A rigid cystoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with your bladder.

Acknowledgements

Author: Mr John Lemberger FRCS

Illustrations: Hannah Ravenscroft RM

This document is intended for information purposes only and should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.

The operation and treatment information on this website is produced by EIDO Healthcare Ltd and is licensed by Ramsay Health Care UK.

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The information should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.