Can cystoscopy detect bladder stones?

Yes, cystoscopy can directly detect bladder stones. During cystoscopy, a urologist uses a thin instrument with a camera to examine the inside of the bladder through the urethra. It can confirm the presence, number, and location of bladder stones and can also help identify abnormalities of the bladder or urinary passage.

Cystoscopy is an endoscopic procedure that allows a urologist to directly examine the urethra and bladder.

Unlike ultrasound or CT, which produce images from outside the body, cystoscopy provides a direct view of the urinary tract lining and bladder cavity.

How does cystoscopy detect bladder stones?

A thin cystoscope is gently passed through the urethra into the bladder.

The camera allows the urologist to examine:

• The bladder lining.
• The bladder outlet.
• The urethra.
• The presence of stones.
• The number and approximate location of stones.
• Other abnormalities inside the bladder.

Can cystoscopy find small bladder stones?

Yes. Because cystoscopy provides direct visualization, it can identify stones that may need further assessment even when other investigations have not provided a definitive diagnosis.

However, the choice of investigation depends on the patient's symptoms and clinical situation.

Can cystoscopy identify the cause of bladder stones?

It can help identify associated urinary abnormalities.

For example, the urologist may examine the urethra and bladder outlet for conditions that could contribute to urinary obstruction.

However, determining the complete underlying cause may require additional tests, such as imaging, urine testing, or evaluation for an enlarged prostate.

Can cystoscopy and bladder stone treatment be performed together?

Yes. In appropriate cases, cystoscopy can be part of a bladder stone treatment procedure.

Depending on the stone's size and characteristics, the stone may be broken into smaller fragments and removed endoscopically. This type of treatment is commonly referred to as cystolitholapaxy.

Is cystoscopy painful?

Cystoscopy can cause temporary discomfort, particularly when the instrument is inserted through the urethra.

The type of anesthesia or pain control used depends on whether cystoscopy is being performed as a diagnostic examination or as part of a treatment procedure.

Your urologist will explain the planned approach beforehand.

Is cystoscopy better than ultrasound?

Not necessarily. Ultrasound is non-invasive and can detect many bladder stones without inserting an instrument into the urinary tract.

Cystoscopy, on the other hand, provides direct visualization and may be particularly useful when:

• The diagnosis remains uncertain.
• The bladder needs direct examination.
• A stone needs to be removed.
• An abnormality of the bladder or urethra needs evaluation.

The appropriate test depends on the individual patient.

When Is Cystoscopy Recommended?

A urologist may consider cystoscopy when:

• A bladder stone needs direct confirmation.
• Imaging is inconclusive.
• There are persistent urinary symptoms.
• Blood in the urine requires further evaluation.
• A bladder or urethral abnormality is suspected.
• Endoscopic stone removal is being planned.

SCI International Hospital

At SCI International Hospital, New Delhi, Dr. Gautam Banga, Senior Consultant Urologist and Andrologist, evaluates patients with bladder stones, urinary obstruction, enlarged prostate, urethral stricture, and other urological conditions. When clinically appropriate, cystoscopy can help directly assess the bladder and urinary passage and may also form part of an endoscopic stone treatment procedure.