Routine Use of Preoperative Cystourethroscopy on the Surgical Management of Urinary Incontinence and Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Objectives: To determine the impact of routine preoperative cystourethroscopy on the surgical management of urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Methods: Retrospective review of consecutive women undergoing surgery for urinary incontinence and/or pelvic organ prolapse at a tertiary referral urogynecology center to determine whether the routine use of preoperative cystourethroscopy changed the surgical management. Patients with other indications for cystourethroscopy were excluded. Results: A total of 283 consecutive charts were reviewed of which 235 met inclusion criteria. Five patients accounted for 6 abnormal findings on preoperative cystourethroscopic examination including 2 bladder calculi, 2 lesions suspicious for neoplasm, and 2 cases of absent unilateral ureteric efflux. In only one case (0.5%) was the surgical plan altered. Conclusion: The routine use of preoperative cystourethroscopy in low-risk patients being prepared for surgery for urinary incontinence and pelvic prolapse is not required when no other indications for cystourethroscopy exist.