Today we’re discussing perhaps an even more relevant topic than the Urodynamics test: the Cystoscopy.
The cystoscopy — or “cysto,” as you’ll hear it called around the office — is another procedure similar to the urodynamics test (or “Uro”). However, unlike the Uro, the cystoscopy is performed on virtually every patient (with very few exceptions). Also unlike the Uro, the cystoscopy is a fairly brief procedure. The test itself should only take approximately 10 min.
For today’s installation of the series, we’re going to take an approach similar to the previous installment and discuss some of the more administrative elements of your cystoscopy appointment.
As mentioned above, the cysto is ordinarily performed on every patient at her first appointment. Before the test, she will have a chance to talk to the doctor in a separate exam room. This will give the doctor a chance to become acquainted with the patient and develop a better understanding of her condition. Thereafter, he will ordinarily order a cysto be performed.
At that time, one of our nurses will come in and escort the patient to the Cystoscopy room. During the test, each of which Dr. Hoyte performs personally, the patient is awake and aware. There is no need to sedate the patient for the quick, non-surgical procedure. As a result, a patient need not struggle to find a driver to bring her to the appointment if she is otherwise capable of driving herself.
All in all, the cystoscopy is hardly to be feared. But our hope here is to eliminate that slight element of surprise which so many patients feel when they arrive to their appointments without knowing in advance what to expect.
And with all of that said, we have reached our destination. If you have any other logistical question about the test or the new patient appointment, please give our office a call. We will soon be posting on the blog with the ABC’s of New Patient-hood. But in the meantime, be sure to check back next week for information about the Uro and Cysto from a clinical perspective.
Until then, be well and stay healthy!