All surgeries have risks. The most common complication after any type of retropubic suspension surgery is trouble urinating. Less than 5% of patients have permanent urinary retention. This may require urinary catheterization from time to time but rarely requires surgery. Other complications associated with retropubic suspension surgery are rare but may include:
- Abscess
- Bladder spasms
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Injury to the bladder, urethra, and other urinary tract structures
- Infection (catheter-related infections are the most common)
- Overactive bladder
- Reactions to anesthesia
- Vaginal prolapse