Cystoscopy for urethral stricture

A stricture is scar-related narrowing of the urethra, the channel that carries urine out of the bladder. A small scope can reveal where the channel narrows and allow inspection beyond it only if passage is safe. The clinician should not force an instrument through a tight narrowing.

The visual examination can help distinguish a narrowed segment from another source of blockage and can inspect the bladder when the scope reaches it. Other tests may be used to map the length and severity of narrowing or to measure how well urine flows and empties.

Finding a stricture does not automatically determine the treatment. Options depend on its position, extent, prior procedures, symptoms, and whether it has returned. Dilation, an internal incision, reconstruction, or monitoring may be discussed in the appropriate clinical setting.

Describe changes in stream strength, spraying, straining, incomplete emptying, infections, and any episode of complete retention. Tell the clinician about pelvic injury, catheter difficulties, previous urethral procedures, radiotherapy, allergies, and medicines that affect bleeding.

Confirm whether the appointment is for inspection only or whether dilation or another treatment might occur. Those plans influence consent, anaesthesia, transport, and whether a catheter may be needed afterward. Follow the tailored instructions about food, fluids, medicines, and recovery.

Seek urgent care if you cannot pass urine and the lower abdomen is becoming painful or swollen. After cystoscopy, contact the treating service for fever, chills, worsening pain, increasing blood or clots, foul-smelling urine, or a stream that is markedly worse rather than recovering.

If a catheter was placed, ask for immediate advice when it stops draining and the bladder feels full. Do not attempt to remove or reposition it unless the clinical team has taught you to do so.

Ask where the narrowing is, whether the scope passed it, and whether another test is needed to define its length. Clarify if treatment is planned now or later, the chance that a catheter will be used, how recurrence would be recognised, and which change in urinary flow warrants an urgent call.