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If your urologist recommends a urethral scope, you may be wondering what it involves and why it’s necessary. In this video, Dr. Kia Michel, board-certified urologist and founder of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, explains how a urethral scope (cystoscopy) works, what it diagnoses, and what patients can expect during the procedure.
With over 20 years of experience and access to advanced in-office diagnostics, Dr. Michel performs cystoscopy safely and efficiently in a comfortable, state-of-the-art setting.
Video Description
A urethral scope, medically known as cystoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure that allows a urologist to directly visualize the urethra and bladder using a thin, flexible camera. It is commonly used to evaluate symptoms such as blood in the urine, urinary obstruction, recurrent infections, or difficulty urinating.
In this video, Dr. Michel explains how the scope is gently inserted through the urethra under local anesthesia. The procedure typically takes only a few minutes and provides immediate, real-time information about strictures, enlarged prostate obstruction, bladder stones, tumors, or inflammation.
He also discusses when cystoscopy is recommended, whether sedation is needed (usually not for flexible cystoscopy), and what recovery looks like afterward. Most patients experience only mild temporary burning with urination.
At Comprehensive Urology, patients benefit from our best-in-class Beverly Hills facility, in-office diagnostics for faster results, and affiliation with Cedars-Sinai for comprehensive surgical care when needed. Our nationally recognized team delivers evidence-based urologic care backed by the latest research and clinical trials.
Timestamps
0:00 – What is a urethral scope?
0:20 – Why cystoscopy is performed
0:45 – Step-by-step procedure explanation
1:15 – Does it hurt?
1:35 – What doctors can diagnose
What’s Covered in This Video
- When to use TURP
- Evaluation of Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
- When a scope is needed for bladder or prostate concerns
FAQ
Is a urethral scope painful?
Most patients feel mild pressure or temporary discomfort, but the procedure is brief and well tolerated with local anesthesia.
How long does a cystoscopy take?
Flexible cystoscopy typically takes about 5–10 minutes in the office.
Medically Reviewed by:
Written by: Kia Michel, MD, Board-Certified Urologist, Urological Surgeon, & Sexual Health Specialist
Reviewed by: Robert Sanford, MD, Board-Certified Urologist, Urological Surgeon, & Sexual Health Specialist
Last Reviewed: March 10, 2026 03:34pm PT
How We Review Medical Content: Dr. Michel reviews all references for accuracy and clinical relevance and Dr. Robert Sanford peer-reviews the data to ensure the most up to date information.
Disclaimer: This video and supporting text is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please contact a licensed physician in reference to your specific case.
Kia Michel, MD
Written by Dr. Kia Michel, a board certified urologist, surgeon, and founding member of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Dr. Michel's expertise includes focal therapy (HIFU/TULSA), prostate cancer treatment, robotic surgery, and male enhancement treatments such as Shock Wave Treatment for ED and penile injections.
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