Shock Shock is the dangerous reduction of blood flow throughout the body. Shock is most often caused by reduced blood pressure. Rapid blood loss from the site of surgery, for example, can lead to shock. When bacteria enter the site of surgery, an infection can result. Infections can delay healing.
Wound infections can spread to adjacent organs or tissue, or to distant areas via the blood stream.
Sometimes blood clotting occurs within deep-lying veins. Large blood clots can break free and clog an artery to the heart, leading to heart failure. Sometimes, pulmonary complications arise due to lack of deep breathing within 48 hours of surgery, inhaling food, water or blood, or pneumonia. Symptoms may include wheezing, chest pain, fever and cough, among others. Urinary Retention Temporary urine retention, or the inability to empty the bladder, may occur after surgery.