Principles of the procedure
This procedure is performed to visually inspect the inside of the bladder, usually under a general anaesthetic. If there are any abnormalities seen, these are either sampled (biopsied) or completely removed (resected) at the time of the surgery.
Pre-Operative preparation
You will be admitted on the day of the procedure. You will need to have a recent urine test (within 2 weeks of the surgery) to ensure that you do not have a urine infection. No other specific preparation is needed apart from fasting from about 6 hours prior to the surgery. You should continue to take your usual medications unless directed otherwise by your Urologist or his anaesthetist. Please inform us if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood thinning) medication.
Expected Post-Operative recovery
The extent of tissue resection will determine your post-operative recovery. If you bladder is normal or only a small biopsy is needed, you may go home on the same day of surgery. If there is a larger resection needed, then you will likely stay overnight in hospital with a catheter in your bladder. Sometimes the bladder is irrigated through the catheter overnight to help clear the urine. The catheter is removed prior to your discharge home.
Some blood staining of the urine can occur after you go home, though this almost always settles by keeping your oral intake of fluids up.
Risks – as per your discussion with your Urologist
Dysuria and bladder irritation
Catheter irritation
Bleeding
Infection
Bladder or urethral injury
Anaesthetic risks