Best Doctor List Near You for Cystoscopy & Ureteroscopy in Gladstone

Cystoscopy and ureteroscopy are minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures used to examine and treat conditions affecting the urinary tract. Cystoscopy involves the use of a cystoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light, which is inserted through the urethra to view the inside of the bladder and urethra. Ureteroscopy, on the other hand, uses a ureteroscope, a similar instrument, to examine the ureters, which are the tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder, and sometimes the renal pelvis. Cystoscopy is commonly performed to investigate symptoms such as hematuria (blood in the urine), frequent urinary tract infections, or urinary symptoms like pain or incontinence. It is also used to diagnose and treat conditions like bladder tumors, stones, or strictures. Ureteroscopy is typically used to diagnose and treat conditions in the ureters and kidneys, such as ureteral stones, tumors, or strictures. Both procedures involve threading the endoscope through the urinary tract, which can cause discomfort and carry potential risks. Complications may include infection, bleeding, or injury to the urinary tract. Specific risks for cystoscopy include transient urinary symptoms or, rarely, significant trauma to the bladder. For ureteroscopy, complications can include ureteral perforation, stone migration, or postoperative pain. Management involves ensuring proper sterile technique, patient monitoring, and providing post-procedural care to address any complications and facilitate recovery. Both procedures are generally well-tolerated, with a focus on minimizing risks and optimizing patient outcomes.