Rigid Cystoscopy - any side effects?

[Maddanj]

I have a rigid cystoscopy in 8 days under anaesthetic as this is larger than the flexible one. I'd really appreciate any female responses to give experience of any side effects so that I can gear myself up to this.

Or any post cystoscopy guidance from medics as the hospital won't supply me with any documentation on this.

I'm worried about possible pain and bleeding afterwards

Especially coming up to Christmas period when it's difficult to get NHS appointments as as I'll be back on antiocagulants and I can't take NSAIDs like Ibuprofen for pain relief.

[MichaelDah]

Hi Maddanj,

I don't think there's anything to worry about. To be honest, I wonder why the examination is done under anesthesia, because it's not really necessary for a normal cystoscopy. Only if you're trying to repair something or inject Botox, for example, does it make sense.

When it comes to cystoscopes: there are also different Ch's (thicknesses) for rigid and flexible cystoscopes - normally there is not much difference - and if there is, flexible cystoscopes are usually a bit thicker.

The main difference is the image quality. Rigid cystoscopes usually have better image quality because they have “direct” optics. Flexible cystoscopes usually have poorer light output and image quality due to the fiber optics used.

For women, a rigid cystoscope is the standard. For men, flexible cystoscopes are more suitable due to the S-shape of the urethra.

A cystoscopy does not usually cause any significant complications - although it is possible to catch a bladder infection or develop macrohaematuria, which can be painful for a while, women in particular do not usually have to expect any major problems.

Best regards

Michael