Cystoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to check the bladder lining and the tube that carries urine out of the urethra. A cystoscope is a hollow tube used in this procedure. It is fitted with a lens and inserted into the urethra, and slowly moved to the bladder. Cystoscopy is performed in a testing room after applying local anesthesia (gel) to numb the urethra. It can be performed as an outpatient procedure where a patient is sedated.