Cystoscopy is a test to look at the inner lining of the bladder and the tube from the bladder to the outside of the body (urethra). The cystoscope is a thin, lighted viewing tool that is put into the urethra and moved into the bladder.

A cystoscopy can check for stones, tumors, bleeding, and infection. Cystoscopy can see areas of the bladder and urethra that usually do not show up well on X-rays. Tiny surgical instruments can be put through the cystoscope to remove samples of tissue (biopsy) or samples of urine.

Cystoscopy also can be used to treat some bladder problems, such as removing small bladder stones and some small growths.