A ureteral injury means the urine tube from kidney to bladder has been bruised, kinked, or torn. Most happen during pelvic surgery, car crashes, or severe infections, and the clues can start days to weeks later.

Flank pain is the headline. A deep, steady ache below the ribs on one side can throb more as the kidney swells.

Urine output drops. You feel the urge but make less than usual, or the bag drains slowly if you have a catheter.

Blood may appear. Urine turns light pink, or you see small clots, often without any burning.

Swelling or bruising can track along the lower belly or side as urine leaks into nearby tissues.

Fever and chills can spike if urine collects inside the abdomen and becomes infected—an internal abscess.

Late signs include a swollen lower belly, persistent hiccups, or a mass you can feel—an alarm that urine is pooling outside the tube.