MINIMALLY INVASIVE CARE

UrethroCystoscopy

A minimally invasive endoscopic examination of the urethra and bladder to diagnose and treat lower urinary tract disorders.

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What is Urethrocystoscopy?

Urethrocystoscopy is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure that allows direct visualisation of the urethra and urinary bladder. It provides a real-time view of internal structures, making it especially valuable when imaging such as ultrasound or radiography is inconclusive.

In female patients a rigid endoscope is typically used, while male dogs require a flexible endoscope due to their longer urethra. Many conditions including ectopic ureters, urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence, bladder stones and masses can be diagnosed and, in many cases, treated without open surgery. It is performed under general anaesthesia.

Key Benefits

Why this minimally invasive approach is the right choice for your pet.

1

Minimally invasive

Accesses the bladder without large incisions or open surgery.

2

Accurate diagnosis

Direct visual identification of stones, masses and abnormalities.

3

Treat as we look

Many conditions are treated during the same procedure.

In Detail

A closer look at how this procedure works and what it can diagnose and treat.

Why it matters

Disorders of the urinary and reproductive tract can be difficult to diagnose using imaging alone. Endoscopy provides a direct, real-time view of internal structures, and is especially valuable when standard tests such as ultrasound or radiography are inconclusive.

  • More accurate diagnosis
  • Identification of structural abnormalities
  • Targeted treatment under visual guidance

Male and female differences

Due to anatomical differences, the approach varies between patients.

  • Female dogs and cats: examined using rigid endoscopy, with access to the urethra, bladder and vagina and excellent image quality
  • Male dogs: require flexible endoscopy due to a longer, more complex urethra; some procedures use surgical-assisted techniques
  • Male cats: more challenging due to a very narrow urethra, often performed using a percutaneous (through the abdomen) approach when needed

Conditions diagnosed and treated

Modern endoscopic techniques allow not only diagnosis but also treatment of several conditions in many cases without the need for open surgery.

  • Ectopic ureters (abnormal ureter positioning causing incontinence)
  • Urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence
  • Bladder stones (urolithiasis)
  • Masses or tumours (neoplasia)

How the procedure works

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and is well tolerated and considered very safe when performed by trained specialists.

  • A rigid or flexible endoscope is inserted into the urinary or reproductive tract
  • The internal structures are carefully examined
  • Samples are collected or treatment performed if required

What to Expect

1

Initial Investigations

We review history and run initial, non-invasive tests and imaging to confirm the procedure is appropriate and safe.

2

General Anaesthesia

Your pet is placed under general anaesthesia and carefully monitored to ensure comfort and safety.

3

Endoscopic Examination

The endoscope is gently introduced and the relevant structures are examined in high detail.

4

Sampling & Treatment

Biopsies or treatment are carried out during the same procedure where needed, and findings are discussed with you.

At a Glance

Anaesthesia

General

Approach

Minimally invasive

Endoscope

Rigid or flexible

Recovery

Reduced recovery time

When it is recommended

  • Urinary incontinence
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections
  • Blood in the urine (haematuria)
  • Suspected bladder stones or ectopic ureters

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia to ensure your pet’s comfort, safety and a thorough, pain-free examination. It is minimally invasive and well tolerated when performed by experienced clinicians.
As a minimally invasive technique, it avoids the large incisions of traditional surgery, which means less tissue trauma, lower complication rates and a faster recovery. Your specialist will provide aftercare guidance based on the findings.
Contact our team by phone or WhatsApp, or use the Book Consultation button. This procedure is typically arranged as part of a comprehensive diagnostic work-up, often alongside initial tests and imaging.

Ready to Book UrethroCystoscopy?

Speak with our team about your pet’s care and the right diagnostic approach.

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