Metabolic acidosis: neo-considerations for general surgeons

Hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis is a documented complication of neobladder formation. However, it usually improves with time and is mild. Severe and persistent metabolic acidosis may manifest when patients undergo further surgery for other reasons. Neobladder formation following radical cystectomy or cystoprostatectomy is becoming increasingly common, and surgeons treating patients with neobladders should recognise and treat metabolic acidosis with intravenous fluids and bicarbonate.