"Flexible Cystoscopy - Have no fears at Boston West"

My GP referred me to Boston West for investigation of problems with my prostate gland. Following a Template Biopsy, which did not show any signs of cancer, I still suffered from variable nightly visits to the toilet, sometimes 5 times. On my first appointment the consultant gave me various very thorough tests and scans to assess the flow and retention of the prostate and bladder. After explaining the possible reasons for the reduction in flow he suggested a Flexible Cystoscopy to investigate further before deciding operation procedures. I agreed to this test. He gave me leaflets explaining this procedure to examine the interior of the urinary system. The appointment for this test was only 2 weeks after my initial appointment. I was a little apprehensive about the prospect of a finger diameter tube being passed through the prostate gland and into the bladder. While the nurses were preparing me for the theatre the consultant introduced himself and his colleague from the theatre and discussed my case. He thought my previous flow results were promising and he felt that an urgent operation may not be necessary, depending on the Cystoscopy findings of the interior areas of the urine system. I walked into the theatre and lay on the operating table, a local anaesthetic jelly was used and I didn’t feel any pain or discomfort as the tube was inserted along with a flow of water, which gave me the impression of passing water. The team pointed out the camera view on a large screen above the operation table. The consultant explained the minor smears of blood through the prostate were due to the friction of the tube along the inner surfaces. He said that the prostate did not appear too narrow inside and no suspicious areas were apparent on the camera. He said that an operation would not be necessary and I should have more flow tests in 3 or 4 months to monitor any deterioration. This procedure lasted less than 5 minutes and I had np pain or discomfort. My fears were completely unfounded. I thank all the staff at Boston West for their care and expertise which was carried out in a friendly manner. Thomas Martin