Urethroscopy – Urethroscopy is an endourologic procedure that allows the doctors to thoroughly examine the urethra and the bladder as well as collect tissue samples for biopsy. It involves the use of special instruments that help to evaluate the problem with added precision and accuracy.

Why is it done?

Urethroscopy is used widely to treat urethral strictures and open urethral blockages. The procedure may be recommended to patients experiencing the following symptoms:

• Persistent or frequent urinary tract infections
• Urinary incontinence
• Irritative voiding symptoms like a frequent urge to urinate, haematuria, nocturia or dysuria, especially if you have a history of prior pelvic surgery.

Cystoscopy – It involves the use of a cystoscope, which is a hollow tube fitted with a lens on one of its ends, to examine the bladder and the urethra. Cystoscopy allows your doctor to look inside your bladder and even collect sample tissues for biopsy. The procedure may be carried out under the influence of local or general anaesthesia.

Why is it done?

Cystoscopy may be recommended for any of the following reasons:

• To determine and evaluate the underlying cause that is responsible for triggering symptoms like haematuria, bladder incontinence, painful urination, etc.
• To diagnose and treat various diseases and ailments related to the bladder
• To diagnose benign prostatic hyperplasia, a condition marked by the enlargement of the [prostate gland.  

Ureteroscopy – One of the greatest advantages of ureteroscopy is that it can help to examine the urinary tract and treat stones located in any area of the ureter and kidneys, even those which cannot be seen on the x-ray. However, ureteroscopy cannot be performed on patients with larger stones or those who have a history of urinary tract reconstruction.

Why is it done?

Ureteroscopy may be done for any of the following reasons:

• As a part of SWL or shock wave lithotripsy
• Determine and treat the cause urine blockage
• To detect, assess and treat masses or lumps present in the ureters

Nephroscopy – Nephroscopy is a minimally invasive alternative to examine and assess the kidneys and the upper urinary tract for the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of various ailments like kidney stones and tumours. The procedure is carried out with the help of a nephroscope, a hollow, flexible tube that can be introduced inside the body via keyhole incisions.

Why is it done?

Nephroscopy may be recommended to treat problems like:

• Kidney stones
• Malignant and benign tumours
• Urinary fistulas