Looking inside the bladder
Cystoscopy passes a thin instrument through the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, to examine the bladder. A flexible cystoscope bends along this passage. The test can help investigate bleeding or other symptoms and monitor people who have had bladder cancer. [1] · [2]
What NBI adds
NBI stands for narrow-band imaging. It uses filtered light to highlight blood vessels and areas of the lining that may need assessment. It is an additional visual aid, not a treatment, and does not replace tissue examination when needed. A highlighted area does not by itself confirm cancer. [3]
What usually happens
Flexible cystoscopy commonly uses local anaesthetic gel. Fluid is introduced to improve the view of the bladder wall; you may feel an urge to urinate or some discomfort. If a biopsy or another intervention is planned, the team will explain whether the anaesthetic or procedure changes. Not every examination includes a biopsy. [1] · [4]
Preparing and understanding the results
Tell the team about medicines, allergies, fever or symptoms of infection. Check whether you need a urine test, fasting or someone to accompany you; instructions depend on the planned procedure. Do not change your medicines without advice. [4] · [1]
The doctor may explain the visual findings after the examination. If samples are taken, pathology results need a later review. Seeing no visible lesion does not necessarily explain all causes of bleeding: further tests may be needed depending on the findings. [5]
Recovery and warning signs
Mild burning or a small amount of blood in the urine can occur afterwards. Risks include infection, bleeding and difficulty emptying the bladder. Follow your discharge instructions. [6] · [7]
Seek prompt medical care for fever, significant pain or heavy bleeding. If you cannot pass urine and have abdominal pain or swelling, seek emergency care. [7]
Questions to discuss:
- What is the examination looking for, and what would NBI add in my case?
- Is tissue sampling planned, or might I need another procedure?
- When will I receive the results, and what happens next?