Robot-Assisted Urologic Procedures Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a robot-assisted urologic procedure, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Damage to neighboring organs or structures
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Anesthesia-related problems
• The need to switch to traditional surgical methods (eg, traditional laparoscopic or open surgery)

Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Pre-existing heart or lung condition
• Advanced age
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Use of certain medicines

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the procedure.

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Catheter stops draining or falls out (if you had a catheter placed)
• Difficulty urinating
• Heavy bleeding or clots in the urine
• Pain, burning, urgency, or increased frequency of urination
• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from an incision site
• Abdominal swelling or pain
• Constipation, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain
• Pain and/or swelling in your feet, calves, or legs
• Other worrisome symptoms

In case of an emergency, CALL 911.