Tests and Procedures
Cardiac catheterization
Risks
As with most procedures done on the heart and blood vessels, cardiac catheterization has some risks. Major complications are rare, though.
Possible risks of cardiac catheterization are:
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Bruising
- Damage to the artery, heart or the area where the catheter was inserted
- Heart attack
- Infection
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- Kidney damage
- Stroke
- Allergic reactions to the contrast dye or medication
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, tell your doctor before having a cardiac catheterization.
