ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the early and delayed complications associated with radical cystectomy and intestinal urinary diversion. Hemorrhage is a common complication of radical cystectomy that can occur acutely intraoperatively and in the delayed setting. The bladder, prostate, uterus, and vagina are vascular organs and drained by a rich venous supply that necessitate careful and secure vascular control. Thromboembolism accounts from 1% to 4% of all perioperative complications reported in contemporary cystectomy series. Postoperative ileus is the delay in the coordinated movements of the gastrointestinal tract. This common complication of intra-abdominal surgery is often responsible for a prolonged hospital stay and significant perioperative morbidity. The development of a bowel leak after radical cystectomy is a devastating complication associated with a significant morbidity and mortality. Surgical site infections and wound and tissue dehiscence are well-known postoperative complications in gastrointestinal and urologic surgery.
