What does cystoscopy allow doctors to examine in the bladder and urethra?

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A cystoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to examine the interior of the bladder and the urethra.12

During the procedure, a cystoscope—a tubelike instrument equipped with a light and often camera or video technology—is inserted through the urethra to provide a direct visual examination of the tissues. This allows physicians to inspect the lining of these structures for abnormalities, such as signs of infection, tumors, or other disorders. Additionally, the instrument can be used to collect tissue samples for biopsy.1234

Would you like to know more about the conditions that might necessitate a cystoscopy?