BPH and the Cystoscopy Procedure

Cystoscopy

Dr. Kevin Zorn, MD, FRCSC, FACS, Urologist

Cystoscopy has come a long way. We now have flexible cystoscopes compared to the rigid ones we used to use. At BPH Canada, we are one of a few clinics in Canada that use single use, disposable, high definition digital scopes, so that every man gets a brand new sterile scope. This is unlike some of the hospitals where there's, unfortunately, despite their best merits, there are cases where bacterial contamination still occurs because they using the same scopes over and over every day.

The cystoscopy is a small five millimeter flexible camera that's passed through the urethra and usually takes under three to four minutes. We do it under sterile technique, using urethral gel with lidocaine so it numbs the area and we're taking our time and not rushing. After the procedure, the most common complaint from men is an awareness to feel the need to the urinate. Overall, post procedure symptoms are minimal.

One of the unique things at BPH Canada, is we do all of these tests on the same day. In our hospital system it would take three to four separate visits sometimes several weeks apart. This means that it can take up to 3 or 4 months sometimes to make a decision on surgical treatment. At BPH Canada, we book a 60 minute visit where we focus on everything at the same time. We can then make an informed decision very quickly with all the facts in front of us, with no delay. At BPS Canada we have made prostate treatment really personalized and are attentive to details. Our aim is to have men go through all of the screening and tests all in one visit. We see the anatomy, the functionality of the bladder, the emptying, their symptom scores, and we discuss their quality of life. If necessary, our aim is to move men off medication quickly and get them the best surgical treatment that’s right for them.

Presenter: Dr. Kevin Zorn, Urologist, Montreal, QC

Local Practitioners: Urologist