A cystoscopy is a procedure used by urology experts like Dr. Pedram Ilbeigi in order to diagnose issues with a patient’s bladder or urethra.
Rancho Mirage patients might initially feel apprehensive about this diagnostic procedure, but Dr. Ilbeigi wants all patients in the Inland Empire to understand that it is not nearly as uncomfortable or painful as a person might think. During a cystoscopy, an instrument called a cystoscope is inserted into the urethra in order to allow Dr. Ilbeigi to look inside the urethra and bladder.
A cystoscopy may be required in order to examine and diagnose a variety of issues, including:
- Determining why a patient is experiencing certain symptoms, including urinary incontinence, pain when urinating, difficulty passing urine or the appearance of blood in the urine.
- Discovering the cause of urinary tract issues. For instance, a patient who is has frequent urinary tract infections may need a cystoscopy to understand the cause of the infections.
- Removing tissues in order to biopsy them.
- Examining the area for blockages which may be caused by kidney stones, an enlarged prostate or tumors.
- Removing foreign objects from the urethra.
- Placing catheters in the urethra or implanting stents in the urethra to help a patient with urine flow issues.
Essentially, this procedure allows a surgeon to get an inside look at the bladder and related organs. The cystoscope is a lightweight, thin tool that has a light attached to it. In addition, the tool serves as a scope which transfers a clear, sterile fluid into the bladder which provides better visibility for Dr. Ilbeigi. Many times, Dr. Ilbeigi also inserts medicine through the scope to help prevent the possibility of an infection after the procedure.
Many patients become concerned about the fact that this lightweight and thin tool will be inserted into their urethra, but it’s important to know that all patients are put under some sort of anesthesia for this procedure. Dr. Ilbeigi notes that many patients require the use of local anesthesia, which numbs the area while allowing them to stay awake for the procedure.
Other patients prefer general anesthesia so that they are not awake during the cystoscopy process. Dr. Ilbeigi believes that patients should be completely prepared for this procedure, and they should note that they might feel nauseous, tired or a little bit sore after it is complete.
The cystoscopy is a safe and effective procedure that is performed often in urological offices. There exists minor side effects, such as a burning sensation during urination, however, patients find that this procedure is far less traumatic than they imagined it being.
Most patients will find that their urine has a pink hue to it for a few days, but it’s important to contact Dr. Ilbeigi immediately if a patient finds blood clots in their urine, develops a fever or chills after the procedure or is not able to urinate for at least eight hours immediately following the procedure.
