A small lighted tube is placed into the bladder through the urethra under local anesthesia . It is connected to a camera so that the patient and the physician can see the results. The bladder is filled with water during the study. It is performed to inspect the bladder for tumors, ulcers and other anatomical abnormalities that can not be identified by other means. It takes approximately 1 ½ minutes to complete but please expect to be at the appointment approximately 30 minutes. You can drive yourself to and from the appointment and there is no preparation for this test. After effects may include slight urgency to urinate and burning with urination for a few hours, as well as possible blood in the urine that clears quickly.