What should you know about nbi cystoscopy?

During cystoscopy, a thin camera passes through the urethra into the bladder so the clinician can view the lining. Narrow-band imaging uses selected light wavelengths that can make differences in blood vessels and tissue appearance easier to see than standard white light alone. The clinician may use the findings to decide whether an area needs closer assessment or biopsy.

NBI can support evaluation for bladder cancer, but an unusual appearance does not by itself confirm cancer. A tissue sample, urine test, imaging, or follow-up cystoscopy may be needed. Your clinician will explain whether the examination is flexible or part of a procedure under anaesthesia.

Follow instructions about medicines, eating, drinking, and arriving with a full or empty bladder. Tell the team about blood thinners, allergies, urinary infections, and difficulty passing urine. Afterward, mild burning or a small amount of blood in the urine can occur for a short time. Drink fluids if your clinician says this is suitable, and follow the discharge instructions.

Ask when results will be available and whether a biopsy or another examination is planned. Keep the contact details for the service that performed the test.

Contact the clinical team promptly for fever, chills, worsening pain, heavy or persistent bleeding, cloudy foul-smelling urine, or difficulty passing urine. Seek emergency help if you cannot urinate, feel very unwell, or develop severe pain or collapse.

Ask why NBI is recommended, whether a biopsy may be taken, what discomfort and bleeding to expect, when to restart medicines, and how results will guide the next step.