Risks. While a relatively safe procedure, safe from major complications, there is still potential for some minor issues. These risks are minimal, but it’s possible a patient may experience bruising or bleeding. It’s also possible to deal with infections or allergic reactions to the dyes and medications used.
The most serious and rare issues include potential heart attacks, strokes, damage to the arteries at the insertion point or tissue damage within the artery or heart. Sometimes, the procedure can lead to an irregular heart rhythm (also known as arrhythmia) in patients.
Women who are pregnant or intending to become pregnant in the future need to discuss the procedure with doctors before undergoing a cardiac catheterization.
