Cystoscopy and Ureteroscopy

The high level of Urology treatment in Israel guarantees a timely diagnosis of diseases of the bladder and the urethra through innovative methods of minimally invasive endoscopic studies.

Cystoscopy and ureteroscopy examinations are conducted by leading experts of the Urology Department of “Herzliya Medical Center”. The hospital is one of the largest centers of endoscopic diagnostics in Israel and has a high level of professionalism and unsurpassed quality of service.

What are cystoscopy and ureteroscopy?

Cystoscopy and ureteroscopy are methods of visual diagnosis of the internal surface (mucosa) of the bladder and the urethra. During the procedure, a cystoscope is inserted through the urethra – a fiber-optic instrument with a magnifying lens and a light source, which provides a clear image of all sections of the inner surface of the urethra. Urological endoscopic surgical instruments are also equipped with manipulators, by which it is possible to conduct minimally invasive diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. There is an opportunity to conduct a biopsy on suspicious areas of the mucous membrane for further laboratory analysis. A ureteroscopy also examines the inside of the urinary tract. The urethroscope, unlike the cystoscope, is much thinner, which allows verifying the urethra with a minimal likelihood of traumatic complications.

Indications for cystoscopy and ureteroscopy in Israel

Specialists at HMC conduct a thorough examination, specifying individually the indications for the procedure. Endoscopic urologic diagnosis in Israel is essential to determine the causes of the following clinical manifestations:

• Recurrent infections of the urinary tract
• Clinical or laboratory signs of bleeding (hematuria)
• More frequent or painful urge to urinate (dysuria)
• Incontinence
• Urinary retention
• Clinical suspicion of the tumor (polyp or tumor)
• Detection of malignant cells in the laboratory urine study
• Urolithiasis

How are a cystoscopy and ureteroscopy conducted in Israel?

The study takes place under local, spinal or general anesthesia. The method of anesthesia is determined by the need for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures, as well as according to individual factors, and patient preferences. Before the study, it is necessary to inform your physician about chronic diseases, drugs used and known allergic reactions. Patients taking medicines that reduce blood clotting receive the necessary guidance for the 7-10 days preparation prior to the study.

During the procedure anesthetic lubricant is used, allowing the endoscope to pass unobstructed into the urethra and bladder. The urologist fills the bladder with sterile saline. The filling of the bladder is necessary for the full unfolding of the folds of the mucous membrane. During the filling of the bladder, patients under local anesthesia may feel the urge to urinate. On the basis of the data obtained in the study of the bladder or urethra the urologist determines if there is a need for minimally invasive procedures (removal of the stone, polyp or biopsy).

Cystoscopy and ureteroscopy, are carried out on an outpatient basis. In some cases, patients are advised to a short-term hospitalization for observation or for further treatment if necessary. On the first day after the study, a possible discomfort in the lower abdomen may occur, as well as the frequent urge to urinate. Minor bleeding is rare and usually resolves on its own, without any additional treatment. Prolonged bleeding, shortness of urine or fever after the test, however, call for an immediate consultation with a specialist.

The diagnostic value and the interpretation of study results

Imaging results are known immediately after the procedure, but for a definite diagnosis, it is necessary to conclude the histology obtained by biopsy specimens. Laboratory abnormalities will determine the final diagnosis as soon as possible, allowing you to start immediately the appropriate treatment. Timely access to specialists at HMC in the Urology Department guarantees the effectiveness of the treatment and a good prognosis.