Cardiac Catheterization

Complications related to the catheter include:

• Pain, swelling, and tenderness at the catheter insertion site.
• Irritation of the vein by the catheter (superficial thrombophlebitis). This can usually be treated with warm compresses.
• Bleeding at the catheter site.
• A bruise where the catheter was inserted. This usually goes away in a few days.
• Trouble urinating after the procedure.

Serious complications are rare, but they can be life-threatening. Serious complications are more likely to occur in people who are critically ill or elderly. These complications may include:

• Sudden closure of the coronary artery.
• Small tear in the inner lining of the artery.
• Reference Allergic reaction Opens New Window to the contrast material, with hives and itching and, rarely, shortness of breath, fever, and Reference shock Opens New Window. These allergic reactions can usually be controlled with medicines.
• Kidney damage. In rare cases, the contrast material can damage the kidneys, possibly causing Reference kidney failure Opens New Window. People with diabetes and kidney disease are at greatest risk for kidney damage.
• Heart attack or stroke.
• Need for more procedures or surgery for complications.

Radiation risk. There is always a slight risk of damage to cells or tissues from being exposed to any radiation, including the low levels of X-ray used for this test. But the risk of damage from the X-rays is usually very low compared with the potential benefits of the test.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.