What is hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows the gynaecologist to see inside the uterus (womb). A thin tube called a hysteroscope is inserted into the uterus. This has a light source and a camera, which shows images of the inside of the uterus on a television monitor. 

Hysteroscopy is a quick procedure and is usually done in the outpatient setting. In more complicated cases, or if it is your preference, a sedation or general anaesthetic may be required. 

Hysteroscopy is used to investigate abnormal bleeding, infertility and to remove lost coils. A hysteroscopy might show: 

• abnormal endometrium (lining of the womb) 
• endometrial polyp (non-cancerous growths of endometrium) 
• fibroid (muscular growth of the uterus) 
• abnormal shape of the uterus 
• adhesions (scarring on the inside of the uterus) 
• retained pregnancy tissue (RPOC)

What does an outpatient hysteroscopy involve?

Outpatient hysteroscopy is often preferred to having a general anaesthetic because: 

• the procedure is quicker 
• recovery is faster and less time off normal activities is needed. 
• the rate of complications is lower

The appointment normally lasts up to 30 minutes. A doctor or nurse will do your procedure, and a nurse or healthcare assistant will assist. Outpatient hysteroscopy currently take place in the gynaecology outpatient department (Concorde House).

You should eat normally beforehand. It is a good idea to take paracetamol and ibuprofen (if you are normally able to take ibuprofen) an hour before the procedure. Please inform us before your hysteroscopy visit if you are taking any blood thinning medications. We will make a plan with you if you should temporarily stop or continue these medications. If you are aged under 55 years old you must avoid sex or use contraception from your last period up until your procedure. We will ask you to provide a urine sample for pregnancy testing on the day of your procedure.

You will be asked to remove clothing below the waist. You will lie on a couch with your feet in footrests and a sheet covering your lower half. A speculum may be used to open the vagina (similar to a smear test). Sometimes local anaesthetic may be injected into the cervix or inserted into the inside of the uterus. The hysteroscope is then inserted and fluid gently pumped into the uterus. This may be slightly uncomfortable but passes quickly. The inside of your uterus will be visible on a screen so any abnormalities can be identified. This part of the procedure lasts a few minutes.

Using a thin straw-like device a small sample of tissue from the lining of the womb (endometrial biopsy) may be taken. Sometimes fibroids or polyps can be treated during your hysteroscopy using fine surgical instruments.

After the procedure you can go home and continue with your normal activities. We will write to you with the results of any biopsies within the next few weeks. 

How do we remove a polyp or fibroid in hysteroscopy?

Abnormal bleeding can be caused by fibroids or polyps. A fibroid is a muscular growth of the uterus, which can cause heavy periods. A polyp is like a skin tag of the lining of the womb. If a fibroid or a polyp is seen at the time of hysteroscopy or on an earlier ultrasound scan then it can be resected. Sometimes a speculum is inserted, and local anaesthetic injected into the cervix if it hasn’t been already. This makes the cervix numb so that it isn’t uncomfortable for us to open (dilate) the cervical canal up a few more millimetres. The polyp is removed using a fine instrument called a polyp forceps or a morcellating device. This device ‘eats’ up the polyp and we can see it on the screen. This is no more painful than having a standard hysteroscopy but does take a few extra minutes.

We recommend having a fibroid or polyp resected whilst you are asleep if:

• you find vaginal examinations or transvaginal scan particularly uncomfortable
• the fibroid or polyp is very large or very calcified and would take a long time to resect whilst you are awake
• the fibroid or polyp is very vascular or has a lot of blood vessels around it that might cause bleeding

Having a progesterone coil (Mirena / Levosert) fitted at hysteroscopy

If you are coming to hysteroscopy, you can have a coil fitted during your visit. We offer a progesterone hormone coil for the following reasons:

• heavy periods
• painful periods
• contraception
• HRT (progesterone component) 
• women with postmenopausal bleeding who are overweight – this stops the development of abnormal cells of the womb lining
• women with known abnormal cells in the lining of the womb (regardless of weight)
• women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

When having a coil fitted there is a small chance that the coil could perforate or go through the wall of the womb. We recommend that you don’t rely on the coil for contraception until you have had your coil threads checked, either by feeling yourself in 4 to 6 weeks’ time or having your practice nurse perform a speculum and see the threads.

If you are coming to hysteroscopy to have your coil removed, we recommend avoiding unprotected sex in the week before to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Pain relief options

Most people find outpatient hysteroscopy mildly uncomfortable and are able to tolerate the procedure very well. The average maximum pain score for hysteroscopy in our department is 5 to 6 out of 10. This falls to 2 out of 10 after the procedure. There are lots of pain relief options available (see opposite) to make the experience as positive for you as possible.

Local anaesthetic block – these are injections of local anaesthetic which are injected into the cervix. This works very quickly and allows us to open the cervix a few more millimetres if need be. 

Instillagel – this is an anaesthetic gel that is inserted into the womb and helps to open the cervix whilst numbing the cervical canal and inside the womb.

Entonox – this is gas and air that is typically used in childbirth. It can be used from the start.

Penthrox – this is an anaesthetic gas that can be used via a special inhaler. It is particularly good for providing pain relief and is regularly used in A&E for pulling broken bones. If you are someone who finds speculums very sore, using Penthrox may be advisable. For more information please see our ‘Penthrox in Gynaecology’ leaflet.

Having a hysteroscopy under a sedation or general anaesthetic

In more complicated cases a general or spinal anaesthetic may be required for example if:

• you have a fibroid or polyp that is too big for removal whilst you are awake
• you are having another operation performed at the same time 
• you find vaginal examination extremely painful
• you can also opt to have general anaesthetic if it is your personal preference

Some women will require a pre-operative assessment to ensure you are fit enough for a general anaesthetic. This may include blood tests, ECG (tracing of the heart), and physical examination. You must bring a current list of any medication you are taking and specifically let us know if you are taking any blood thinning medication.

You cannot eat or drink anything except clear fluids for 6 hours before your procedure. This will be discussed at your pre-operative assessment. Most people will be discharged on the same day as their procedure. You will be unable to drive for 48 hours after your operation. It is important that you are not alone for the first 48 hours. 

The procedure is the same as hysteroscopy in outpatients except you are asleep or numb from the waist down. These procedures happen in a surgical operating theatre and not in the gynaecology outpatients department. After your hysteroscopy, you may feel groggy and sometimes people may feel sick. These are common side effects of the general anaesthetic and will pass quickly. 

When you are up and about, eating and drinking, and able to pass urine you will be able to go home. You will be able to continue your normal daily activities within 1 to 2 days. We advise you take 2 days off work.

What complications can occur?

2 in 1000 women will experience a serious complication from their diagnostic hysteroscopy. This number is likely to be much lower if performed in outpatients. Common complications include bleeding, infection (frequently of the womb lining or urine), and feeling faint during the procedure. 

Serious potential complications include: 

• damage to the uterus 
• failure to enter the uterus (this is more likely if you have had LLETZ treatments on your cervix in the past). 
• blood clots in the lungs or legs (thrombosis). 
• perforation and damage to internal organs, including bowel, bladder and major blood vessels. 
• fluid overload

Failure to enter the womb is more common in post-menopausal women, women who have not had babies delivered vaginally and women who have had a LLETZ procedure (loop excision of the cervix for abnormal cervical smears). If this is the case, then we would book you to come back for a hysteroscopy under general anaesthetic. This is because when you are asleep we can use certain instruments to open the cervix and enter the womb more easily.

If perforation is suspected, we will monitor you more closely for the next few hours and may ask you to stay in overnight. We often will give you a course of antibiotics. If damage to the internal organs is suspected we might do extra scans of your tummy like an ultrasound or CT scan. Ultimately, we might perform a laparoscopy (keyhole camera in the abdomen) or laparotomy (cut on the abdomen) to check for damage and repair it if present. 

Fluid overload happens when a large amount of fluid has been inserted into the womb and absorbed by the woman’s body. This is unusual as we keep a close eye on the amount of fluid pumped in and the amount coming out and stop the procedure if we are reaching a large volume. If fluid overload is suspected, you may need to stay in hospital for a few hours for observation and blood tests. Very rarely fluid ends up in the lungs making you short of breath. Fluid overload is more likely when you are having a long procedure where a large fibroid or polyp is being resected, or if you have significant heart or lung issues. 

What to expect after my hysteroscopy

It is normal to experience vaginal spotting for the first few days after your hysteroscopy, this might be heavier if you have had a polyp or fibroid resected. It is advisable to use sanitary towels (instead of tampons) and avoid having sex, baths or swimming until bleeding has stopped. This helps to reduce the rates of infection in the womb. Sometimes women experience crampy lower abdominal pain, this is short-lived, and you can take simple painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen (if you are normally able to take ibuprofen).

Infections of the lining of the womb may happen about 7 to 10 days after the procedure. The main symptoms of an infection include smelly discharge, lower tummy pain, worsening bleeding, and fevers. If this is the case, then we recommend speaking to your GP and having a course of oral antibiotics. 

We do not arrange routine hospital follow up appointments. If you have any problems or concerns, you can contact the Gynaecology secretaries or your GP.

• Gynaecology Secretaries 0117 414 6791 option 4

Further information

RCOG – Outpatient hysteroscopy patient information leaflet Outpatient hysteroscopy | RCOG

Date published: 1 October 2026 Review due: 31 October 2029 PI number: BFT002442

For guidelines on how to send diagnostic samples to the Neuropathology Department, download:

To make a referral to the department, download:

For general guidelines for sending a muscle or nerve biopsy to the department, download the guidelines below

For a list of the diagnostic tests performed within the Neuropathology Department, download:

The department works with the Severn Pathology Genetics Department to offer a fully integrated report service for surgical patients. To see full details of this please visit the Severn Pathology webpage.

Request Forms

Each of our Pathology disciplines has its own specific request forms. These are available to order from our Pathology Consumables page Consumables Ordering | North Bristol NHS Trust, however, copies of forms are also available to print below.

Sample acceptance and rejection

It is the policy of North Bristol NHS Trust that all samples taken for laboratory investigations and accompanying request forms will be labelled to a minimum standard which minimises the risk of harm to patients. The Specimen Labelling Policy (CG-163) is attached below. 

Key points are:

• The patients primary identifier is the NHS number and this must be used wherever possible.
• In normal circumstances, unlabelled or inadequately labelled samples will not be processed. There is a recognition that there are certain circumstances where samples are unrepeatable. The circumstances and actions in this case are documented within the policy.
• Each request received by the laboratory is considered an agreement between the requestor and laboratory for provision of Pathology Services.

Requests can be made in Sunquest ICE, however where this is unavailable, dedicated NBT Pathology Request forms are obtainable which should be completed in full.

Samples may be rejected when received in the wrong container, underfilled/overfilled, insufficient, haemolysed, clotted, contaminated or when subject to incorrect storage, temperature, transport or time-dependent requirements. See the individual test information pages for special requirements and precautions.

The reason for rejection of a sample should be clear on the report for that specimen.

[attachments]

Aciclovir

Albendazole Sulfoxide

Amikacin

Benzylpenicilin (Penicillin G)

Chloramphenicol

Ciprofloxacin

Colistin

Cycloserine

Daptomycin

Ethambutol

Flucloxacillin

Fluconazole

Flucytosine

Ganciclovir

Gentamicin

Isavuconazole

Isoniazid (+ N-Acetyl-Isoniazid)

Itraconazole

Levofloxacin

Linezolid

Meropenem

Moxifloxacin

Posaconazole

Rifabutin

Rifampicin

Streptomycin

Sulphamethoxazole in (Co-trimoxazole)

Teicoplanin

Tobramycin

Trimethoprim in (Co-trimoxazole)

Vancomycin

Voriconazole

Infection Sciences Information

The Department of Infection Sciences is a collaboration between the North Bristol NHS trust and UK Health Security Agency to provide a hospital-based service for the laboratory diagnosis and clinical management of microbial diseases for patients both in hospital and the community, together with advice on the control of infection.

Laboratories participate and perform well in national quality assurance schemes and is fully accredited. They are accredited for training with the Institute of Biomedical Science and registration with the Health Care Professions Council and the Royal College of Pathologists.

Medical microbiologists are available, both during the day and out-of-hours, to give advice concerning the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of infectious diseases. Where appropriate, preliminary reports and results are phoned to the clinician concerned. Ward rounds are conducted daily to review and offer advice on the management of inpatients with serious infections.

An active Infection Control Team is available at all times to help with matters relating to the control and prevention of infection.

UKHSA Terms and Conditions for the supply of goods and/or services Terms and conditions for the supply of goods and/or services - GOV.UK.

Useful Documents

Mycology Reference Laboratory service user handbook

User Survey:

Forms

This is the laboratory page of the Department of Immunology of North Bristol NHS Trust. If you want to access the clinical page, please visit Immunology and Allergy Centre. 

General Information

The Department of Immunology and Immunogenetics provides a comprehensive clinical diagnostic service to Bristol NHS Foundation Trust and local community and provides a referral service for laboratories throughout the Southwest. The laboratories are located in the Pathology Sciences building on the Southmead Hospital Bristol site.

Investigations are provided in HLA typing and renal crossmatching, allergy, autoimmunity, immunochemistry, immunodeficiency, and immunophenotyping. There are close links to the Southmead Renal Transplant Unit, Paediatric Transplantation for the Southwest and Wales and UK Transplant with a 24-hour service for renal transplantation. Clinical advice and interpretation are available throughout.

The department is committed to providing a high-quality service for all its users, participates in all appropriate External Quality Assurance Schemes, and is a UKAS accredited medical laboratory No.8067. If it is necessary to refer work, where possible this will be to other CPA or UKAS accredited laboratories. Where this is not possible, laboratories are selected on National and International reputation in specialist assays.

The department has been approved for BMS training by the IBMS and our Trainee BMS staff are trained in accordance with the IBMS and HCPC regulations. Our qualified staff (CS and BMS) are required to be registered with HCPC. The department is also accredited to train staff undertaking the STP and HSST programmes with the National Science Healthcare school.  There is active encouragement for staff to follow further education courses, such as management qualifications. Additionally, we are accredited by the Royal College of Pathologists and Royal College of Physicians for Immunology Specialist Registrar Training.

Patients with suspected autoimmune disorders, allergy or immunodeficiency may be referred to clinic for investigation.

For Allergy and Immunology clinical advice, the clinicians and nursing team can be contacted:
1. via the secretaries on 0117 4143456, 9-5, no on-call service provided
2. via switchboard to our individual mobiles if clinician specific advice required, 9-5
3. via the immunology SpR bleep 9287, 9-5, no on-call service provided
4. via email immunologyandallergy@nbt.nhs.uk inbox monitored daily

This page tells you about the scan, how to prepare and what will happen during your scan.

We also have a short film here Having a Breast MRI | North Bristol NHS Trust

The film follows the journey of one of our patients from their arrival at reception to leaving the department following their scan.

What is an MRI of the breast?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive medical imaging test with no radiation (no X-rays). It uses magnetic field, radio frequency pulses, and a computer, to produce detailed pictures of the breasts.

When is breast MRI used?

MRI of the breast is used for a number of reasons. It is not a replacement for mammograms (breast X-rays) or ultrasound, but is used to provide extra information about your breasts.

Some of the reasons are:

• to provide additional screening if you have an increased risk of breast cancer to investigate abnormalities found by mammograms and ultrasound
• to assess the extent of a diagnosed cancer before planning treatment
• to measure the effect of chemotherapy on breast cancers
• to check the condition of breast implants

Essential information

Because of the powerful magnets used in MRI scanning, it is not suitable for everyone. Before the MRI, a member of the MRI Team will go through a safety checklist with you.

Dental filings, bridges, joint replacements and cardiac stents can all be scanned safely. Please still inform the Radiographer as they may need to minimise the effect on your imaging. 

It is very important that you tell us if you have:

• any form of surgical implant
• pacemakers
• cochlear implants
• internal electronic devices
• clips on arteries especially following brain surgery
• metal fragments in your eyes
• implanted pumps
• implanted electronic stimulators

Please let the MRI Team know as soon as possible if you have any implanted devices. The phone number is on your appointment letter.

Clips used in breast imaging

Clips are often used in breast imaging to mark an area in the breast at the time of a biopsy. If you have one of these clips in your breast it is unlikely to prevent you from having your MRI, but please tell us If you have had surgery where a breast port or expander has been implanted please let the department know prior to your MRI as it may not be safe to have the MRI.

What happens when I arrive?

• You will be met by a member of the MRI Team, who will check your personal details and go through a safety checklist with you.
• They will explain the procedure to you. Please feel free to ask any questions at this time.
• You will be asked to undress and change into a  gown (to wear with the opening at the front). A locker will be provided for your clothes.
• It is very important that you do not bring anything containing metal into the scanning room. Please leave all  jewellery, credit cards, piercings, watches, mobile phones, and any other metal objects in the locker provided. Gold wedding bands will not affect the scanner and can be worn.

What happens during the scan?

• Breast MRI uses a special dye (contrast medium) which helps to take detailed pictures of the breast. This is called gadolinium-DTPA.
• The radiographer will use a needle to introduce a small flexible plastic tube into a vein in your arm so that the contrast medium can be given at the appropriate time during your scan.
  Please note the injection will not be necessary if you are having the breast MRI purely to assess your breast implants.
• You will then be asked to lie on your front on the MRI couch.
• Your breasts will need to go into the two holes on the couch. The Radiographer (always a female member of staff) may help position you. Please let us know if you are not comfortable as it is important that you lie absolutely still.
• The couch then slowly moves into the MRI scanner and the images are taken.
• The scanner is very noisy, please make sure the headphones are positioned over your ears. Earplugs are also available. 
• The radiographer operates the MRI scanner from behind a partition. They will be able to see you throughout the procedure and you will be able to talk to them through an intercom in the MRI scanner. If you would like updates during of the scan, please let the radiographer know.

How long does a breast MRI take?

The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes, but please allow 1 hour 30 minutes for the appointment.

Can I eat and drink on the day of the MRI scan?

Yes, please eat and drink as normal. Please also take all your medication as you normally would.

Drink plenty of water after the scan because the contrast medium injection can sometimes dehydrate you.

Does having a breast MRI hurt?

No, MRI scans do not hurt.

Some women may find the injection uncomfortable. It is also normal to feel a slight flushing sensation when the injection is given but this usually settles quickly.

Some women may find lying on their front uncomfortable.

I have heard MRI scans are noisy, is this true?

The action of a large magnet in the MRI makes a knocking or drumming noise. The noise changes several times during your scan; this is perfectly normal.

We have recorded a film of the experience of a breast MRI scan that includes some of the various noises that you will hear, and these can be listened to here Having a Breast MRI | North Bristol NHS Trust.

You will be given headphones to reduce the noise. 

You will still be able to hear what the radiographer says. If you would like, we can play the radio through these headphones.

I’m feeling worried about having the scan. What can I do?

It’s normal to feel a bit anxious about having an MRI scan especially if it’s your first one. Here are some tips that you may find helpful to prepare for your scan, and while you are having it.

Preparing for the scan

The more information you have before the scan the more relaxed you will feel at your appointment, The film on the website (at www.nbt.nhs.uk/breastmri) gives lots of helpful information on what to expect, including what the machines look and sound like. It will also give you an opportunity to see if there’s anything you don’t understand, or anything you would like more information on to prepare you.

During the scan

If you are feeling anxious during the scan:

• Remind yourself why you are having the scan (for example to review your health/get the best treatment possible) - knowing there are good reasons for having this MRI can help you to get through it.
• Know that it’s normal to feel some anxiety during a procedure. Breathing slowly and gently can help relax your mind and body. It’s important not to take deep breaths as this can affect the quality of the scan pictures.
• Distract yourself. For example, think of a relaxing place you have been to. such as a beautiful beach or a country walk and think about all the details (like the colours, sounds, smells, etc.).
• Be kind to yourself (a bit like being your own cheerleader) for example ‘I can do this’, ‘I’m doing really well’, ‘I’m in safe hands’.
• Remember that it will pass. Your radiographer will be able to give you an idea of how long the scan will be. If you would like time updates of how long you’ve been in the scanner and how long before it’s finished please let them know when you arrive on the day.

Getting a good picture – the radiographers will ask you to be absolutely still throughout your scan to ensure that we obtain the best pictures possible. 

If you need to stop the scan

There is a ‘help button’ which will be available to you. Squeeze this button if you need assistance from the radiographers. If you are having the contrast, please only squeeze the bell during the contrast scan if you have a medical emergency as we cannot repeat that scan on the same day and may need to rebook your appointment. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the MRI department, on 0117 414 9003, in advance. It’s more helpful to contact the team beforehand so you can get support to make your experience of having a scan go as smoothly as possible.

Can I have a breast MRI if I am pregnant or breast feeding?

It is very important to tell the radiographer if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are breast feeding.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding this will need to be discussed with the referring doctor to make sure that MRI is still the best option. 

How will I get my results?

How you receive the results of your MRI scan will depend on the reason for your scan and may be by letter, phone or at an appointment in person. How you receive your results will have been arranged with you prior to your scan.

A copy of your results will also be sent to your GP.

A note about your results and follow-up:

After your MRI has been reported, it is sometimes necessary to call you back to a breast clinic to take additional mammogram images or perform an ultrasound scan. This is a routine part of ensuring the clearest possible assessment and does not necessarily mean anything is wrong. If you are asked to return, please try not to worry; it is a standard step in providing you with the most thorough care.

Are there any side effects?

There are no expected side-effects of the MRI scan itself, and you will be free to drive and return to work should you wish.

In very rare cases, some women can have an allergic reaction to the contrast medium used in breast MRI. The radiographer and doctors are all trained to deal with such reactions.

How to contact us

• MRI Department Southmead Hospital 0117 414 9003 
• Bristol Breast Care Centre 0117 414 7000 
• Avon Breast Screening, Breast Care Nurses 0117 414 7072

Date published: 17 July 2026 Review due: 31 July 2029 PI number: BFT002956

Blood Transfusion

Telephone: 0117 4148350
On-Call Haematology BMS via bleep 9433

Autolab heldesk

Telephone: 0117 4148383
On-Call Haematology BMS via bleep 9433

Medical Staff

Dr A Whiteway
Consultant Haematologist
Head of Clinical and Laboratory Haematology
Via Haematology secretaries - Telephone: 0117 4148401

Dr Michelle Melly
Consultant Haematologist
Via Haematology secretaries - Telephone: 0117 4148401

Dr M Kmonicek
Consultant Haematologist
Via Haematology secretaries - Telephone: 0117 4148401

Dr Samreen Siddiq
Consultant Haematologist
Via Haematology secretaries - Telephone: 0117 4148401

Dr Sophie Otton
Consultant Haematologist
Via Haematology secretaries - Telephone: 0117 4148401

Dr Jaroslaw Sokolowski
Consultant Haematologist
Via Haematology secretaries - Telephone: 0117 4148401

Dr Surenthini Salmon
Consultant Haematologist
Via Haematology secretaries - Telephone: 0117 4148401

Dr Kiri Dixon
Consultant Haematologist
Via Haematology secretaries - Telephone: 0117 4148401

Laboratory Staff

Mr Alan Noel
Blood Sciences Manager
Telephone: 0117 4146295

Mrs Ellen Roberts
Blood Sciences Operations Manager
Telephone: 0117 4148498

Mr Tim Wreford-Bush
Lead BMS Blood Transfusion
Telephone: 0117 4148363

Dr Karen Mead
Specialist Practitioner of Transfusion
Telephone: 0117 4148358

Mrs Grace VanDerMee
Lead BMS Haematology
Telephone: 0117 4148356

Mrs Halina Collingbourne
Quality Manager
Telephone: 0117 4148354

Anticoagulation Monitoring Service

Please note that this service has moved to Pharmacy.

Llinos Jones
AMS@nbt.nhs.uk
Telephone 0117 4148405
Contactable from Mon-Fri 09:00 - 17:00

Secretaries Office

Telephone: 0117 4148401
Email: HaematologySecretaries@nbt.nhs.uk

BCARE hosts the Antimicrobial Reference Laboratory which provides a comprehensive antimicrobial assay service for the purposes of therapeutic monitoring and supporting consultative advice on technical aspects and clinical interpretation of antimicrobial assays. The laboratory receives referred samples from all over the UK and Ireland.

Please see the assay booklet below for full details.

Assays of serum drug concentrations are indicated in the following situations:

• Drugs with a known or suspected relationship between concentrations in blood and toxicity
• Drugs with a known or suspected relationship between concentrations in blood and efficacy
• Where there is pharmacokinetic variation such that concentrations in blood cannot be predicted
• To confirm oral absorption
• To test compliance

The Antimicrobial Reference Laboratory routinely provides a wide range of antimicrobial assays. Some of these are routinely performed in large numbers and no advance warning is required if the sample is to arrive during a normal working day; others are performed less frequently and advance warning is essential if a same-day service is required.

In addition advice can be obtained on development of LS/MS assays, problems with immunoassays and patient-related issues.

Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) and serum bactericidal titres (SBTs) can be performed on patients’ isolates and sera.

Analyte Information