Cystoscopy in Kharkiv — The Gold Standard for Bladder and Urinary Tract Evaluation
Cystoscopy is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure that allows for the direct visualization of the urethra, the bladder neck, and the interior lining of the bladder. This essential diagnostic and therapeutic method enables urologists to accurately diagnose urinary tract conditions, obtain tissue samples, and perform various interventions. At Brigid Medical Center, we perform cystoscopy using state-of-the-art equipment with maximum safety and comfort for the patient.
Key Benefits of Cystoscopy at Our Center
Direct Visualization
Real-time examination of the bladder mucosa, ureteral orifices, and the urethra.
Accurate Diagnostics
Precise biopsy sampling for a definitive histological diagnosis.
Therapeutic Capabilities
Simultaneous diagnostics and treatment: stone removal, tumor resection, and stent placement.
Comfortable Procedure
Performed under local, spinal, or general anesthesia based on medical indications and patient preference.
Rapid Examination
Diagnostic cystoscopy takes 10–20 minutes; therapeutic procedures take 20–40 minutes.
Outpatient Procedure
Most cystoscopies are performed on an outpatient basis with same-day discharge.
What is a Cystoscopy?
Cystoscopy is an endoscopic examination that allows for the direct visualization of the lower urinary tract. Using a flexible or rigid cystoscope equipped with a video camera and light source, the urologist can:
- Examine the urethra (urethroscopy) from the external meatus to the bladder neck.
- Inspect the entire bladder mucosa for pathologies.
- Visualize the ureteral orifices and assess urine flow.
- Detect tumors, stones, inflammatory processes, or other abnormalities.
- Obtain tissue samples (biopsy) for subsequent laboratory analysis.
- Measure bladder capacity and evaluate the elasticity of the bladder walls.
- Perform therapeutic manipulations: stone removal, tumor resection, or stricture dilation.
- Install ureteral stents or remove foreign bodies.
- Accurately determine the source of hematuria (blood in the urine).
- Identify anatomical causes of urinary incontinence.
When is a Cystoscopy Recommended?
Diagnostic Indications:
- Gross or Microscopic Hematuria (blood in urine, whether visible or found in tests).
- Persistent Irritative Voiding Symptoms (frequency, urgency, pain, or burning).
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections without an established cause.
- Suspected Neoplasms of the bladder or urethra.
- Abnormal Urine Cytology (detection of atypical cells in lab results).
- Unexplained Urinary Incontinence or severe voiding dysfunction.
- Chronic Pelvic Pain related to the urinary system.
- Suspected Interstitial Cystitis (Painful Bladder Syndrome).
- Evaluation of Congenital Anomalies of the lower urinary tract.
- Post-traumatic Evaluation of the urethra or bladder.
Therapeutic Applications:
- Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumors (TURBT).
- Bladder Stone Removal (Cystolithotripsy).
- Treatment of Urethral Strictures (Internal urethrotomy or dilation).
- Coagulation of Bleeding Sites within the bladder.
- Placement or Removal of Ureteral Stents.
- Injection of Bulking Agents for stress urinary incontinence.
- Botulinum Toxin Injections for overactive bladder.
- Removal of Foreign Bodies from the urinary tract.
Monitoring and Follow-up:
- Bladder Cancer Surveillance (follow-up exams every 3–12 months).
- Monitoring after Intravesical Therapy (BCG or chemotherapy).
- Treatment Efficacy Assessment in oncology patients.
- Evaluation of Radiation Therapy Effects on pelvic organs.
- Follow-up after Reconstructive Surgery of the urinary tract.
What Can a Cystoscopy Detect?
Oncological Conditions
- Bladder Cancer (Urothelial Carcinoma)
- Urethral Tumors and Polyps
- Bladder Papillomas
- Carcinoma in situ (CIS)
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Adenocarcinoma
Inflammatory Processes
- Acute and Chronic Cystitis
- Interstitial Cystitis (Hunner's ulcers)
- Radiation and Chemical Cystitis
- Eosinophilic and Polypoid Cystitis
Structural Abnormalities
- Bladder Calculi (Stones)
- Urethral Strictures (Narrowing)
- Bladder Diverticula (Outpouching)
- Ureterocele and Bladder Neck Obstruction
- Foreign Bodies
Other Pathologies
- Endometriosis of the Bladder
- Malakoplakia and Amyloidosis
- Vascular Malformations and Bladder Varices
- Traumatic Injuries and Congenital Malformations
Types of Cystoscopy
Flexible Cystoscopy
- Instrument: Flexible fiber-optic or digital cystoscope.
- Anesthesia: Local intraurethral anesthesia (Lidocaine gel).
- Advantages: Minimal discomfort; ideal for office-based diagnostics.
- Applications: Routine diagnostics and scheduled follow-ups.
Rigid Cystoscopy
- Instrument: Rigid metal cystoscope with high-resolution optics.
- Anesthesia: Spinal or general sedation.
- Advantages: Wide working channel for surgical instrumentation.
- Applications: Surgical interventions (TURBT, Lithotripsy) and large biopsies.
Advanced Modalities
- Photodynamic Diagnosis (PDD): Blue light technology to visualize "hidden" tumors.
- Narrow Band Imaging (NBI): Enhances mucosal vascular patterns for better detection.
- Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy: Real-time "optical biopsy" of tissues.
- Ureterorenoscopy: Extension for evaluating ureters and the renal pelvis.
How is a Cystoscopy Performed?
Preparation and Positioning
The patient is positioned on a specialized table. The genital area is cleaned with antiseptic. For flexible cystoscopy, an anesthetic gel is applied to the urethra.
Instrument Insertion
The cystoscope is gently inserted through the urethra. The bladder is filled with a sterile solution to expand the walls, allowing the doctor to inspect every area of the mucosa in detail.
Inspection and Assessment
The urologist conducts a systematic examination: walls, floor, dome, and ureteral orifices. Urethral patency and the prostatic section (in men) are also evaluated.
Interventions (If Required)
Biopsies of suspicious areas are taken, or therapeutic steps (polyp/stone removal) are performed. Key findings are documented via video or photo.
Completion
The solution is drained, and the cystoscope is removed. The patient receives instructions on fluid intake and further treatment. Results are discussed immediately after the procedure.
Advanced Cystoscopy Equipment
Our center is equipped with premium technology for maximum precision:
- Digital Video Cystoscopes: Ultra HD optics for flawless visualization.
- NBI and Fluorescence Systems: For early cancer detection invisible in white light.
- Bipolar Resectoscopes: For safe tumor removal with minimal tissue damage.
- Holmium Laser: The most effective tool for fragmenting stones of any density.
- 3D Visualization: Provides the surgeon with perfect spatial precision.
Schedule Your Cystoscopy Today
Timely diagnostics are key to successfully treating urinary system diseases. Do not ignore warning signs like blood in the urine or chronic pain. Cystoscopy at Brigid is a fast, reliable, and painless way to get accurate answers.
Take care of your health. Contact us to book an appointment or consult with a leading urology expert in Kharkiv.
Brigid Medical Center — Advanced Urological Diagnostics and Interventions in Kharkiv.
Modern Equipment · Experienced Experts · European Protocols · Your Comfort is Our Priority
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