I have bladder cancer T1HG. The cancer was removed 3 years ago (TURBT) and I go for cytology and a cystoscopy every 4 months.
About a year ago the cytology showed atypical cells, I was told the cells were not cancer cells, but they were also not normal. The Cytology was repeated twice and each time there were atypical cells which lead to my doctor scheduling Bilateral Ureteral Cystologies w/ Retrograde Pyelogram.
This resulted in a hospital trip, fortunately nothing "bad" was found and my condition continues to be the normal continued monitoring and vigilance.
To me the procedure was like a "power wash" of my bladder and kidneys to see what they could "shake out" and to check out what could be found. It was a quick and simple procedure, not a problem 98% of the time. I unfortunately ended-up with some painful spasms which occur about 2% of the time and I was on pain and anti-spasm meds for 2 or 3 days.
I Googled the procedure:
"Ureteroscopy uses a ureteroscope to look inside the ureters and kidneys. Like a cystoscope, a ureteroscope has an eyepiece at one end, a rigid or flexible tube in the middle, and a tiny lens and light at the other end of the tube. However, a ureteroscope is longer and thinner than a cystoscope so the urologist can see detailed images of the lining of the ureters and kidneys.
* Retrograde pyelogram is a urologic procedure where the physician injects contrast into the ureter in order to visualize the ureter and kidney. The flow of contrast (up from the bladder to the kidney) is opposite the usual flow of urine, hence the retrograde name".
I've been more than very healthy all my life; until the last 5 years ... heart attack, stent, and then bladder cancer.
I'm still in excellent health, I just consider my issues to be a part of the aging process ... they are manageable and not a big deal. The real "BIG DEAL" is the fear and uncertainty; having never been sick I've never been prepared for the uncertainty, worry and fear that go along with medical conditions.
What I've had to do is learn to deal with manageable health issues, keep a positive attitude, and not jump to conclusions. I strongly believe that the medical community needs to be much more aware of the uncertainty and fear ... we all need reassurance as well as treatment.
I find this site is excellent for sharing information and helping all of us the with uncertainty, it has GREATLY helped me and I am thankful. Hopefully we've been able to help you ... good luck.
