Flexible Cystoscopy & Removal Stent

A day procedure under local anaesthetic, where a flexible cystoscope is placed in the bladder via the urethra to remove a stent placed with previous upper urinary tract work

Why is it done?

To investigate:

• Removal of stent which was placed after a stone removal, recent ureteroscopy, ureteric re-implantation, precautionary placement prior to pelvic surgery (Colo-rectal, Gynae Oncology, Uro-Oncology)

Risk factors:

• Strong family history of bladder cancer
• Smokers or passive smokers
• Factory workers: dyes, paints, etc
• Renal stone disease, bladder stones with recent surgery resulting placement of a stent

How is it done?

• A cystoscopy is performed by placing a camera in the urethra with the help of a lubricant jelly and saline
• The bladder is then distended using the fluid
• The inside of the bladder is viewed for pathology.
• If any suspicious lesions are seen, a biopsy will be taken.
• Urine would have been sent for cytology prior to the procedure, to rule out the existence of cancer.
• Antibiotics may be given to prevent infection.
• Stent removed

Complications

What to expect after the procedure?

• Pain on initial passing of urine
• Pain as the ureter contracts back to its usual size
• Bladder infection ranging from a burning sensation to, fever, to puss (rare)
• Bloodstained urine
• Lower abdominal discomfort which will persist for a few days
• NB! Each person is unique and for this reason, symptoms vary.

Indications for a Ureteric stent

• Hematuria from upper tracts
• Disobstruction of the ureter caused either calculus, blood clot or tumour
• External compression of the ureter by   retro-peritoneal pathology ie: Fibrosis,  retroperitoneal lymph node compression
• Reduced renal function associated with  hydronephrosis
• Sepsis associated with hydronephrosis

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Wes Flexible Cystoscopy and Removal Stent

Copyright 2019 Dr Jo Schoeman