Sacral neuromodulation (SNM)/sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) has been an established treatment for overactive bladder syndrome, voiding dysfunction and faecal incontinence for over 20 years. SNM involves the implantation of a tined lead and battery in the S3 or S4 sacral nerve foramina to modulate the nerves. It is important that complications related to the SNM device are recognised and managed accordingly. There are several steps that can be utilised to reduce the risk of complications, including having clear indications for device implantation, appropriately selecting patients, ensuring high volume rates of implantation, having a team who are able to recognise and manage complications, and having the technical skills to manage the complications.