Cystoscopy + Retrograde Pyelogram

A cystoscopy may be suggested for a number of reasons including;

• Blood in the urine
• Assessment of urinary tract infections
• Difficulties passing urine
• Pain or bothersome urinary symptoms.

A cystoscopy is a procedure where a telescope is used to inspect the urethra (water-pipe), the prostate (in men), and the bladder. A very clear and magnified view can be achieved.

It is possible to assess the drainage system of each kidney with an x-ray called a retrograde pyelogram. Contrast (radiological dye) is injected via a small catheter into the ureter. As it fills, x-rays are taken in the operating theatre to look for any abnormality. Your urologist will advise you whether this is indicated.

We will provide you with instructions regarding all aspects of preparing for your operation.

• Pre-operative blood and urine tests.
• Details of admission to hospital.
• Information regarding fasting and medications.

You are usually able to eat and drink what you feel like after the surgery. You will be encouraged to maintain a good fluid intake. Pain relief is always available, however, it is not usual to have significant pain after this procedure. You will most likely experience irritation and have a frequent need to urinate afterwards. There will most likely be some blood in the urine which should settle within a few days.

You will be given pain relief if required and antibiotics if necessary to take home with you.

This is generally a very safe procedure with a low risk of complications.

• The chance of infection is <5%
• Significant bleeding requiring readmission to hospital or blood transfusion is <5%
• The chance of an injury or perforation of the bladder is <1%

You should drink extra fluid over the first week or two after surgery. Drinking 1500-2000mL per day is usually satisfactory. Do not drink excessively. Aim to keep your urine a pale yellow or straw colour. If you find your urinary symptoms are not improving or become worse, then you could have an infection. Either contact our office or see your GP to organise a urine test.

If you do notice an increased amount of blood in the urine, then drink extra water to dilute the urine. Occasionally there is more excessive bleeding, and maybe clots in the urine that make it difficult to pass. If this occurs then please contact our office, contact your GP or present to a hospital emergency department for assessment.

You should be able to recommence most of your usual activities shortly after surgery. Please avoid heavy lifting or straining until bleeding settles. Sexual activity can be recommenced once the bleeding settles.

You should not drive for 24 hours after having sedation/anaesthetic (or as instructed by your Urologist).

Patients who are travelling outside the metropolitan area are required to check when they are able to travel, and will be required to stay in the metropolitan area for 24 hours (or as instructed by your Urologist).

In the event of an emergency, call our office within business hours and speak to our Practice Nurse. If out of hours, please call our office to contact our On-Call Urologist, or present to your nearest Emergency Department.

Ashford Hospital
55 Anzac Highway, Ashford SA 5035
8375 5205
Until 10:00 PM

Flinders Medical Centre (access to Flinders Private Hospital)
Flinders Drive, Bedford Park SA 5042
8204 5511
24 Hours

Calvary Adelaide Hospital
120 Angus Street, Adelaide SA 5000
8227 7027
24 Hours Royal

Darwin Hospital
Rocklands Drive, Tiwi NT 0810
8922 8888
24 Hours

**For patients outside the Metropolitan area, please present to your nearest hospital emergency department.

A post operative appointment will usually be made for you prior to your procedure.  Please ask your urologist, or contact our rooms to ensure arrangements are in place.  If you have travelled from the country for your procedure then a phone call or telehealth consultation may be arranged for review.

If you have any concerns after your procedure, then please contact our office and speak to one of the practice nurses.

The content provided within this document is intended as a guide only and does not apply to all patients.  Additional information, including patient specific potential risks, must be obtained during consultation with your Urologist.