Cystoscopy is an office procedure used to examine the urethra and bladder with a small flexible camera. It is commonly performed to evaluate blood in the urine, urinary symptoms, recurrent infections, or other abnormalities identified on imaging or testing.

The procedure typically takes only a few minutes and is performed using local anesthetic gel. Patients can generally return to normal activities immediately. Temporary burning with urination or a small amount of blood in the urine is common; infection and significant bleeding are uncommon.