Kidney & Ureteral Stones
Potential Risks and Complications
Although this procedure has proven to be very safe, as in any surgical procedure there are risks and potential complications. Potential risks include:
- Bleeding: Blood loss during this procedure is possible and a transfusion is necessary in approximately 20% of patients. If you are interested in autologous blood transfusion (donating your own blood) you must make your surgeon aware.
- Infection: All patients are treated with antibiotics to decrease the chance of infection from occurring after surgery. If you develop any signs or symptoms of infection after the surgery including fever, drainage from the incision, urinary frequency/discomfort, pain (or anything that you may be concerned about) please contact us at once.
- Tissue / Organ Injury: Although uncommon, possible injury to surrounding tissue and organs including bowel, vascular structures, spleen, liver, lung, pancreas and gall bladder may occur requiring further surgery. Loss of kidney function is rare but is a potential risk. Scar tissue may also form in the kidney or ureter requiring further surgery.
- Conversion to Open Surgery: This surgical procedure may require conversion to the standard open operation if difficulty is encountered during the procedure. This will result in a larger open incision and possibly a longer recuperation period.
- Failure to Remove the Stone: There is a possibility that the stone may not be able to be removed due to its size or the location at the time of surgery. Alternative treatment may be required.
