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Cystourethroscopy is one of the most common procedures performed by a urologic surgeon. It allows for direct visualization of the urethra, urethral sphincter, prostate, bladder, and ureteral orifices. There are various indications to perform a cystoscopy. It can be performed as a simple office procedure or as a procedure in the operating room with the patient under general anesthesia. This activity describes the indications, contraindications of cystoscopy and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in managing patients with urological problems. Objectives: Describe the technique of cystoscopy. Review the indications for cystoscopy. Summarize the complications of cystoscopy. Explain the importance of improving care coordination among the interprofessional team to enhance the delivery of care for patients undergoing cystoscopy. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Phillip Bozzini, a German army surgeon, invented the first instrument to visualize the inside of a human body in 1806. He named this device the Lichtleiter. A candle and angled mirrors within the device would enable a surgeon to see inside a body cavity. The device was originally intended to view the pharynx, but it was quickly adapted to view inside the penis and urethra. This was the catalyst for further experimentation and innovation of endoscopic instruments. Maximilian Carl-Friedrich Nitze and Joseph Leiter developed the first true working cystoscope in 1878.[1] From that point on, there has been constant innovation and development that has led to the instruments urologists use today. Cystourethroscopy is one of the most common procedures performed by a urologic surgeon. It allows for direct visualization of the urethra, urethral sphincter, prostate, bladder, and ureteral orifices. There are various indications for cystoscopy, and it can be performed as a simple office procedure or in the operating room under general anesthesia. There are both flexible and rigid cystoscopes, as well as a variety of tools that can be incorporated during cystoscopy, depending on the situation. Cystoscopy is primarily a diagnostic procedure, but a limited number of therapeutic procedures can also be performed. Below, the general anatomy of the urethra and bladder is discussed, including indications for cystoscopy, contraindications, available equipment, technique, and potential complications.

Complications of cystoscopy are generally minor and may include urinary tract infection, hematuria, dysuria, and injury to the bladder or urethra. The development of an iatrogenic urethral stricture is a known possible complication of instrumentation.[6][7][8]

Cystoscopy is used to diagnose and manage many urological disorders. The urologist primarily performs the technique with the assistance and monitoring of the nurse. The nurse should monitor vital signs and report any significant changes. After the procedure, patient care is provided by nurses trained in urology. This individual must immediately report untoward events or complications. The 2 most immediate complications of the procedure include bleeding and urinary obstruction. Nurses should be familiar with the protocol for when to call the urologist when these problems arise. Before discharge, the nurse must coordinate the patient's education and report any lack of understanding to the clinical team leader so they can provide further assistance. Interprofessional teamwork results in the best patient care and better outcomes.