Cystoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to look at the inside of your bladder and urethra. It’s done using a thin, lighted tube called a cystoscope
The doctor inserts this tube into your urethra and on into the bladder. Your doctor can see areas of your bladder and urethra that usually don’t show up well on X-rays.
Your doctor can also insert tiny surgical tools through the tube to take samples of tissue (biopsy) or samples of urine.
Small bladder stones and some small growths can also be taken out this way. So the test may help keep you from having to go back for surgery.
Cystoscopy may be done to:
Find the cause of many urinary system problems. Examples include blood in the urine, pain when you urinate, incontinence, frequent urinary tract infections, and blockages in the urinary tract.
Remove tissue samples for testing (biopsy).
Remove a foreign object.
Insert a stent. This helps urine flow from the kidneys to the bladder.
Treat certain problems. The test can be used to remove stones or growths, help stop bleeding in the bladder, or remove a blockage.
Inject a dye that is used for a special type of X-ray of the ureter and kidney