What should you know about cystoscopy and kidney stones?

During cystoscopy, a clinician guides a narrow camera through the urethra into the bladder. This gives a direct view of the bladder lining and the openings where urine enters from the kidneys. It does not automatically show every stone in the kidney; imaging may be needed to locate stones higher in the urinary tract.

If a stone is blocking the ureter or causing urinary symptoms, a urology team may use cystoscopy as part of a procedure to place a stent, retrieve a stone, or reach the ureter with additional instruments. The exact approach depends on the stone's position, size, symptoms, and your general health.

Ask which medicines to take or pause, whether you need to avoid food beforehand, and what anaesthetic is planned. Tell the team about allergies, pregnancy, blood-thinning medicines, and previous urinary procedures.

Afterwards, mild stinging when passing urine or a small amount of blood can occur for a short time. Follow the discharge advice, drink fluids if your clinician allows it, and take only recommended pain relief. Keep any follow-up appointment so the stone and urinary drainage can be reviewed.

Seek urgent medical care for fever or chills, worsening flank or abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, inability to pass urine, confusion, or feeling faint after a urinary procedure. These symptoms can signal infection or obstructed drainage and need prompt assessment.

Ask where the stone is, whether cystoscopy is being used for diagnosis or treatment, whether a stent may be left temporarily, and how you will know that urine is draining normally.