A cystoscopy is a medical procedure where a doctor uses a thin, lighted instrument called a cystoscope to examine the inside of the bladder and the urethra. This diagnostic tool helps identify issues such as urinary tract stones, blockages, or tumors, and can also be used for minor treatments. Proper preparation ensures the procedure is safe and successful, involving adjustments to medications, diet, and necessary logistical planning. Preparation steps vary depending on whether you receive a local anesthetic or full sedation.
Adjusting Medications and Diet
Before the procedure, discuss all medications and supplements with your physician, as some may interfere with safety. Blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin, warfarin, or newer anticoagulants, often need to be stopped or adjusted several days before the cystoscopy to reduce bleeding risk, especially if a biopsy is planned. Your doctor will provide a specific timeline, typically three to seven days prior. Never stop taking a prescribed medication without explicit direction from your healthcare provider.
Medication management is important for individuals with diabetes, as fasting requirements may affect blood sugar levels. If fasting is required, your physician will guide you on adjusting insulin or oral diabetes medications to prevent hypoglycemia. Over-the-counter supplements, including fish oil, high-dose Vitamin E, and certain herbal preparations, should also be disclosed. These supplements may have blood-thinning properties and are often discontinued about one week prior.
Dietary restrictions depend on the type of anesthesia you will receive for the cystoscopy. If the procedure involves only a local anesthetic gel applied to the urethra, you can usually eat and drink normally. However, if your cystoscopy requires sedation or general anesthesia, you must fast. Fasting usually means consuming no food or drink after midnight the night before the procedure, often a period of eight hours.
Maintaining adequate fluid intake in the days leading up to the procedure is encouraged to ensure you are well-hydrated. You may be asked to hold off on urinating for a short period before checking in, as a pre-procedure urine sample is needed to check for a urinary tract infection. If an infection is detected, the procedure may need to be postponed until the infection is treated to reduce the risk of complications.
Essential Practical Arrangements
Planning the logistics of your procedure day ensures a smooth recovery process. If you receive sedation or general anesthesia, you must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home afterward and potentially stay with you for the following 24 hours. Anesthesia and sedatives impair judgment and reaction time, making it unsafe to operate a vehicle or heavy machinery. This transportation arrangement must be secured in advance, as failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your procedure.
On the day of the cystoscopy, select appropriate clothing for comfort. Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that is easy to remove is recommended, as you will likely change into a hospital gown. Leave jewelry and other valuables at home to prevent loss or damage.
Confirm the exact time and location of the procedure in the days leading up to your appointment to avoid delays. Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including your insurance card, photo identification, and doctor-provided paperwork. If you are having a rigid cystoscopy under general anesthesia, you may have a pre-assessment appointment a week prior to confirm fitness for the anesthetic.
The Final Steps on Procedure Day
The morning of your cystoscopy involves actions to reduce the risk of infection. Take a shower or bath before leaving home, as clean skin helps reduce infection risk. Avoid applying any lotions, powders, perfumes, or deodorants to the genital area. These products can interfere with the antiseptic cleaning agents used by the medical team.
If permitted, take necessary morning medications with only a small sip of water, following your doctor’s instructions. Arrive at the facility with enough time to complete check-in without rushing, typically 30 to 60 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Upon arrival, you will be asked to provide a urine sample and empty your bladder immediately before the procedure begins.
Ensure you have essential items like identification and insurance information. Valuables should be left secured at home. Following these steps ensures you are ready for the medical team to begin. This involves lying on an examination table, where a local numbing gel will be applied to the urethra before the cystoscope is gently inserted.