Anyone experiencing abnormal, persistent, or worsening bladder issues (incontinence, overactive bladder, blood in urine, pelvic pain, frequent urinary tract infections, or painful urination), necessitates a visit to your doctor. Besides performing a thorough exam, your doctor may also recommend a procedure called cystoscopy. A cystoscopy, also known as cystourethroscopy, allows a doctor to get a better view for examining the lining of the bladder and urethra in more detail.
Purpose of a cystoscopy
Before discussing types of sedation when undergoing a cystoscopy it’s important to understand the purpose of this procedure and under what circumstances it is necessary. The purpose of a cystoscopy is to help diagnosis, monitor and treat conditions affecting the bladder and urethra.
When is a cystoscopy necessary?
This procedure is helpful to doctors as it can reveal various underlying conditions that may be causing issues, such as:
- Bladder tumors
- Bladder stones
- Bladder cancer
- Blockages
- Enlarged prostate gland
- Noncancerous growths
- Problems with the ureters (tubes) connecting your kidneys to your bladder
Other reasons for having a cystoscopy
- Treating bladder conditions by removing tumors or stones, or sampling tissue.
- Collecting a urine sample checking for tumors or infection
- To insert a small tube to assist with urine flow
- To inject dye helping identify kidney problems on an x-ray
What type of sedation is used for cystoscopy
The type of sedation used for a cystoscopy can vary and is often determined by the specific circumstances of the procedure and the patient’s health. There are generally three main types of sedation options:
Local Anesthesia:
- Description: This involves numbing the urethra using a local anesthetic gel or liquid.
- Effect: Provides pain relief in the immediate area where the cystoscope is inserted.
- Consciousness: The patient is fully awake and aware during the procedure.
Conscious Sedation (Procedural Sedation):
- Description: Mild sedation that induces a relaxed state while allowing the patient to remain conscious.
- Effect: Reduces anxiety and discomfort during the procedure.
- Administration: Typically administered through an intravenous (IV) line.
- Consciousness: The patient may feel drowsy but can respond to instructions and may have limited memory of the procedure.
General Anesthesia:
- Description: Renders the patient completely unconscious and unaware.
- Effect: Provides complete pain relief and induces a state of unconsciousness.
- Administration: Usually administered through an IV, inhalation, or both.
- Consciousness: The patient is fully unconscious and unaware during the procedure.
The choice of sedation depends on factors such as the complexity of the cystoscopy, the patient’s overall health, and their preferences. Local anesthesia is often sufficient for routine cystoscopies, while conscious sedation or general anesthesia may be recommended for more complex or uncomfortable procedures.
It’s important to discuss the sedation options with your healthcare provider before the cystoscopy inorder to make the best decision based on your individual needs and medical history.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.
