What usually happens after a GP referral for cystoscopy?

[Saoirse67]

My GP has referred me for a cystoscopy as been having bladder problems. He didn’t actually go in to what happens next though. So do I an appointment with a Urologist first and then another appointment for the cystoscopy or is the appointment for the actual cystoscopy.

I know I should have asked these questions at the time🙈

I was referred under the suspected cancer pathway to urology rather than directly for cystoscopy. Between the referral and seeing the consultant I had a kidney/bladder ultrasound but my first appointment with the urologist was a discussion then I was booked in for the cystoscopy after that. Had to wait a couple of weeks for it because I had it under GA. Didn't get the impression they'd do it there and then if I'd chosen not to have the anaesthetic though.

When you get the letter through with your appointment give the medical secretary a call if you're not sure of anything. Hope all goes well

The urologist decides if a cystoscopy is the most appropriate next step and discusses it with you. A flexi cystoscopy is usually done in clinic so could be on the day if you consent. A rigid cystoscopy is done with either GA/spinal anaesthetic so would be on an operating list at a later date. If they think imaging/bloods/urine samples/other flow related tests are more likely to be useful then they’ll suggest that instead/as well…all depends on what the problem actually is.

It might depend on the type of bladder problems. I was referred for haematuria, which we knew was probably exercise-induced, but still needed to be checked. I was sent one appointment, which consisted of an initial CT-scan, and then checks with a nurse who took urine samples, and the the cystoscopy and chat with the urologist (who did the cystoscopy). It was all done in one day in my case, but that might have been because it was an urgent referral. I had no choice about anaesthetic or sedation or anything (it was a flexible cystoscopy), just told that that was what was going to happen in that part of the clinic and so I didn't question it.

I was referred on the 2 week pathway too. Got a letter saying Cystoscopy done first by Urologist. This was done and numbing gel used before inserting scope. No pain on /during scope but was a tad uncomfortable afterwards. Told there was nothing wrong with bladder and referred for bladder/ kidney abdominal scan. Fortunately nothing found but Urologist did advise to chat to GP re Vaginal Atrophy and now on a very very low dose Vaginal pessary 2x weekly and all good.
Don’t let anyone/ anything put you off getting this test done.Best wishes