How Should You Prepare for a Cystoscopy?

Preparation for cystoscopy depends on whether you are having a flexible or rigid procedure. Flexible cystoscopy usually requires little preparation, while rigid cystoscopy performed under general or spinal anaesthesia may require fasting and specific instructions about medicines. A urine test may also be performed before the procedure to check for infection.

Before cystoscopy, your urologist will review your medical history, current medicines, allergies, and the reason for the procedure.

Preparation may include:

• Urine testing: A urine sample may be requested to check for a urinary infection. If an infection is present, the procedure may need to be postponed until it is appropriately managed.
• Medicines: Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, particularly blood-thinning medicines. Your doctor will advise whether any medication needs to be adjusted.
• Food and drinks: For a typical flexible cystoscopy under local anaesthetic, you can generally eat and drink normally. If a rigid cystoscopy is being performed under general anaesthesia, you may need to fast for several hours according to the hospital's instructions.
• Bladder preparation: You may be asked to empty your bladder before the examination or provide a urine sample at the same time.
• Transportation: If general or spinal anaesthesia is used, arrangements for someone to take you home may be necessary.

Your exact preparation instructions should always come from the treating urology team because they depend on the type of cystoscopy and whether additional treatment or biopsy is planned.

SCI International Hospital

At SCI International Hospital, Dr. Gautam Banga reviews the patient's medical history, symptoms, medicines, and investigations before cystoscopy. Patients are given procedure-specific instructions regarding urine testing, medicines, food and fluid intake, and anaesthesia preparation.