Urine leakage can result from inadequate intraoperative closure of a collecting system defect or ureteral obstruction from a blood clot, which increases backflow pressure. A surgical drain should therefore be used when the renal collecting system has been violated to monitor for postoperative leak. In addition, the patient should retain a Foley catheter to ensure bladder decompression and low upper tract pressure. Urine leaks are usually transient and heal without intervention; however, a persistent leak may require the placement of a ureteral stent to facilitate drainage and healing.

In addition to bleeding and urine leak, other potential complications include wound infection, ileus, pneumonia, injury to adjacent organs, and transient renal insufficiency.