Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy is insertion of a rigid or flexible fiberoptic instrument into the bladder.

Indications include the following:

• Helping diagnose urologic disorders (eg, bladder tumors, calculi in the bladder, benign prostatic hyperplasia)

• Treating urethral strictures

• Accessing the bladder for ureteral x-rays or placement of JJ ("double J") stents (stents with coiled ends placed in the renal pelvis and bladder)

The main contraindication is active urinary tract infection (UTI).

Cystoscopy (Bladder Stones)

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This image shows a cystoscopic view of several bladder stones (yellow spheres).

Dr. Arnold Rivera/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Cystoscopy (Bladder Cancer)

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This cystoscopic view inside the bladder of a male with a transitional cell carcinoma shows a tumor (center) in the bladder wall.

DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY