Outpatient rigid cystoscopy: Is it acceptable to women?

Abstract

Objective:

Flexible cystoscopy is commonly performed as an outpatient procedure whereas rigid cystoscopy is performed under general anaesthesia by urogynaecologists because of a perception that it is painful. The aim of this study is to assess women’s experience of outpatient cystoscopy (OC) with rigid cystoscope.

Materials and methods:

The first 56 women who attended our newly established OC service with rigid cystoscope were recruited prospectively for the study. They were requested to complete a questionnaire (with visual analogue scale) based on their expectations prior to the procedure. A post-procedure questionnaire was given to quantify their experience after the OC. Two patients were excluded from the study as they did not complete the questionnaire appropriately. Wilcoxon signed ranks test was used to compare the scores for comfort, pain and anxiety in the pre- and post-procedure questionnaires.

Results:

A total of 52/54 patients (96.3%) were fully satisfied at the end of the procedure as indicated in their visual analogue scale score of 10/10. Most patients found the procedure more comfortable and less painful than expected. There were no post-operative complications.

Conclusion:

OC with a rigid cystoscope is a well-tolerated, safe, cost-effective ambulatory service resulting in good patient experience.