Complications from Catheterization, Angiogram or Angioplasty

Current Postings (115)

• Theresa -- ischemic heart disease is also called coronary artery disease -- plaque builds up inside the arteries, causing a blockage which reduces blood flow and therefore delivery of oxygen to the heart muscle. This puts extra stress on the heart, and can cause reduced activity and pain, called angina. It is what medications, stents and bypass surgery treat -- but not cure. Also, if you are having pain in your leg, near where the catheter insertion was done, you should discuss this with your interventional cardiologist.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, May 10, 2008

• I have 2 stents. The first was put in March 2002 and the next one July 2002. In 2003 had another catheterization which they found another blockage but was afraid to try and fix for messing up the stents which is more important. Oct. 2007 was rushed to hospital and they did another catheterization on me. Had stent problems again. Lately I have been having problems at the part of my leg where they keep going in to do their business. I'm in pain and often it hurts more when i am trying to walk. Could this be from scar tissue or could it be something serious in which I need to consult my doctor about? Also, what is ischemic heart disease? And is it some thing to worry about? Thanks and God bless.
Theresa Helms, Fort Mill, South Carolina, USA, May 10, 2008

• Edward -- sounds like the MRI has revealed what the cause of your pain is. The question you have is how this happened. It's impossible to say, but the extended time of lying still on your back during the cath and recover period might have inflamed a pre-existing problem. Another reason why we recommend checking out if the transradial approach from the wrist is a possibility -- especially for patients who have back problems.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, May 8, 2008

• Follow up to previous posting as per your response I went to see a neurologist who put me on anti inflammatories and Neurontin 100ml 3x a day and aqua therapy 2x a week. I am in constant pain with no relief for the burning pain in my groin and stabbing pain in my buttocks radiating to my waist. I had an MRI last Thursday and the results are disc bulges l3-l4 through l5-s1. Mild l4-l5 neural foraminal stenosis and Schmorl's nodes on l1, l2 and l3 vertebrae. Today the neurologist doubled my Neurontin to 200mg 3x a day. I do not understand how this came about, since i never had a back injury in my life. I was told if the pain persists he will send me for pain management / nerve block in two weeks. I have now been out of work, since the end of February and he extended my p30 disability form to June. Please advise if you have any other suggestions?
Edward E., New Jersey, USA, May 8, 2008

• Amanda -- what you see in an angiogram is actually the contrast dye which shows up black. It delineates the coronary vessels and looks a bit like the branches of a tree. From your description, you might be seeing another test done as part of the angiogram. It's called a ventriculogram, where the dye is injected directly into the ventricle of the heart. As the heart beats, a catheter squirts dye in and you see the ventricle moving -- this tells the cardiologist how well (or not) the heart muscle is pumping. Not sure what you're seeing, but if one of the arteries was in fact torn (this is called a dissection) it actually is not that obvious to the untrained eye. If you have concerns or questions, we'd recommend showing the angios to a qualified healthcare professional.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, May 6, 2008

• my father passed away a few years ago since then we have gotten the cd of his angiogram while watching the cd we noticed " bleeding " squirting with every beat of his heart we don't know if the doctor was ruff and may have punctured something or what he was trying to place a stent and was having a hard time and made my father stay over night to try and attempt to do it once again in that cd as well we saw bleeding what is this bleeding caused from anyone know please help me to know the truth of what really killed my father thank you.
Amanda, Sacramento, California, USA, May 6, 2008

• Mary -- your story falls into that category of 3-4% of complications following a diagnostic cath performed from the femoral (leg/groin) artery. Not a large number, unless it happens to be you, of course! Bleeding complications are the most common type of complication, especially now that anti-thrombotic and anti-coagulation drugs are being used almost all the time to prevent blood clots from forming during the procedures (e.g. your Lovenox). These drugs improve safety, but also make hemostasis (the stopping of bleeding) more challenging, especially in certain types of patients. Another reason why we are trying to educate both patients and professionals about the transradial approach, where the wrist artery is used. There are virtually no bleeding complications in transradial. With proper patient selection, catheter procedures from the wrist can significantly reduce complications (see our Radial Access Center  for more information). Also, the fact that you've had so much difficulty getting medical care to deal with the unfortunate (to say the least) results of these complications, is yet another example of why some significant healthcare reform in the U.S. is critical.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, May 2, 2008

• November 2006, admitted to the hospital for chest discomfort two days later was given Lovenox and taken for a cardiac cath. Cath went okay-placed aside to recover before going back to my room-felt a pop in my right groin -arterial blood was like a geyser. People came running- large people tried to apply pressure -a C-clamp was applied -the pain was unbelievable-it took almost 3 hours to stop-doctor told my husband "it should not have happened ''.on bed rest for 24 hours with a pressure dressing-on telemetry-that night felt horrific pounding in my head and chest-a doctor comes into my room to inform that i need two units of whole blood-the next morning nurse removed pressure dressing and i walked into the bathroom-went to sit on the commode and felt a pain-worse than any three natural deliveries i had. I yelled -the nurses seemed to know right away what was wrong. They picked me up and threw me on the bed and one applied pressure while the other one got the c-clamp.next thing i knew the room was filled with people and everyone was talking about seeing this large pseudo-aneurysm and then a cardiac surgeon came-told me that ,although ,he ,himself never did it but saw it done was going to inject the aneurysm with thrombin and if that did not stop it i would be taken to the operating room.

I was told it will take a year to be okay but guess what???? It is not okay-i work in behavioral health and it is getting harder to walk for long periods of time-let along if i have to run-the pain stops me in my tracks that goes down my leg- i usually swear to keep from letting out a yell. I think i am losing my mind my life has changed and i am afraid- i am a diabetic and have neuropathy but i have had this pain down my inner right leg mostly behind my shin and to the left of it. The cardiologist over again apologizes when i see him-wanted me to go to physical therapy at thirty dollars a pop and told me it was too bad i could not afford to see a neurologist to check my leg. I had to file bankruptcy last december due to being off work -5 weeks -when this happened and using my credit cards to live off of. I am frustrated and getting angry- at least they could pay for me to see a neurologist -my insurance sucks!!!
Mary, Pennsylvania, USA, April 28, 2008

• F.F. -- you describe what is a very rare occurence -- but every medical procedure carries a risk, even if small. The diagnostic cath is a very safe procedure and the risk of heart attack or death from a diagnostic cath is very low, less than one in one or two thousand. Was the procedure a diagnostic cath or was it an angioplasty? Was there emergency bypass surgery available at the hospital where this happened?
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, April 24, 2008

• A close friend of mine had the procedure performed last Tuesday. The catheter dislodged soft plaque, sending it to the left side of the heart, blocking the blood supply. After over thirty minutes of CPR, brain activity ceased and he was clinically dead.
F.F., New York, USA, April 21, 2008

• G from Arizona -- visit our Radial Access Center where you will find our new "Radial Hospital Locator". We see that Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Phoenix is listed. Our listing is not an endorsement of a particular hospital, only that they have a radial program. And there may well be other centers in the Phoenix area. Best thing to do is call the cardiology departments and ask. And let the Forum know what you find out.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, April 7, 2008

• Do you have a list of Interventional Cardiologists in the Phoenix, Arizona area that do Radial Angioplasty. I do not know how to line up a doctor with this experience. I would like to have a patient relationship with this doctor in advance in the event I may need a stent in the future. Thank you in advance.
G, Arizona, USA, April 7, 2008

• To all posters -- it is not uncommon to have soreness, etc. at the femoral (groin) access site when a catheter-based procedure is done for a short time. If you have a purple bruise like area, that's a result of some blood that migrated under the skin. This should be reabsorbed into the body. But if this area grows in size or becomes painful, you should definitely let the interventional cardiologist know. You want to be sure you are not having a bleeding complication. We recommend the same for other discomforts that do not go away. The effects of nerve trauma may in fact be felt for months. Bleeding and other complications from femoral catheter-based procedures are around 3% -- we feel this figure is under-reported. So, report yours to your interventional cardiologist (the one who did the procedure) who should be made aware of these incidents. As we have stated before, we at Angioplasty.Org are evangelists for more cardiologists using the radial approach (wrist), especially for catheterizations -- the incidence of nerve and bleeding injuries is very low.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, April 4, 2008

• I had a cerebral angiogram over a week ago Friday 3/21/08 to locate an aneurysm. Since then I have occasional pain at the puncture site and when walking develop pain and numbness on the outside of my thigh. Is it normal to have residual effects this long?
Bart P., California, USA, March 30, 2008

• Had a negative heart cath with a right femoral Angio-Seal closure on Feb 18th. I had absolutely no problems with the site for the first month, although, the fingers of my right hand were turning white, were numb and icy. Dr. had me on Lopressor 50mg 2x a day in error. I weaned off of the Lopressor but am still having icy fingers. A week ago, I began to experience internal pulling and pinching in my right groin. I have occasional mild stabbing pain on right side near kidney area. It seems as if the discomfort is getting a little bit worse each day. Is this normal? Will this discomfort go away? Thanks.
Donna I., Pennsylvania, USA, March 28, 2008

• An update: I am still having the pain. I can hardly walk. Now my feet and ankles are swelling. I found out from my cardiologist that the stent is too narrow but they can't do anything about it. The stent is 1 1/2 inches long. He told me it was too risky for blood clots to try to open it up. So yippee...I have the horrible pain in my thigh, hip to knee, artery spasms, I'm almost immobile from the pain. My feet and ankles are swelling and I'm awaiting test results to see if this is from my heart or my kidneys. I'm still on disability. Could being given Thallium dye (Stays in your body for up to 72 hours) instead of the other one cause this problem? I was told there is a worldwide shortage of the one that stays in your system for only 6 hours.
G, Arizona, USA, March 28, 2008

• I had a heart cath only on March 16, 2008. there was a small bruise at the groin site. However, I have developed a deep bruise on the inside of the right thigh and it is very painful. I don't know who to check with, is this normal?
Linda L., Michigan, USA, March 27, 2008

• I had an angiogram on January 2, 2008, following a heart attack. No blockage found, however, I noticed the next day in the hospital that I had several small puncture wounds in my right groin area, but that the catheter was my left groin area. I reported to the doctor that I was experiencing numbness in my right thigh, but he did not seem concerned. It is now March, and I am still experiencing occasional numbness in the right leg and now I am getting terrible hip pain and my knee is starting to give out. Anyone else experience anything like this?
CMac, New York, USA, March 26, 2008

• Elaine -- if there were a problem with the femoral access site or closure device, it probably would be more around the leg where the catheter insertion was made (not technically surgery). It may be however, that you developed a back problem from lying flat for several hours. But we would suggest that you discuss this with your cardiologist or whoever did the catheter procedure to rule out any vascular problem.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, March 18, 2008

• Hi, I had an angiogram on the brain back in January 2005 where it was discovered I had two aneurysms that had ruptured, I then had surgery where an angio-seal vascular closure device was used. Since this surgery I suffer from terrible lower back pain and pain in the upper part of both legs, is this normal?
Elaine, United Kingdom, March 17, 2008

• Edward -- if you look through the various postings, you'll see others with similar complaints. If it was nerve trauma, it should go away in time. How much time is hard to say, but some patients on this board have seen neurologists, who can more specifically assess the problem. Some have gotten relief with Neurontin and other pain killers. The seal, possibly AngioSeal, is most likely not the problem here -- as your cardiologist said, it probably has to do with trauma to the femoral nerve from the needle stick and/or catheter. The femoral nerve lies relatively close and parallel to the femoral artery. Another reason why we at Angioplasty.Org are evangelists for more cardiologists using the radial approach (wrist), especially for catheterizations -- the incidence of nerve and bleeding injuries is very low.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, March 17, 2008

• I received an angiogram on 3/3/08 and had the "seal" device after the procedure.The next day I was in extreme pain and felt as if I was going to throw up and pass out at the same time. My brother took me back to the emergency room on 3/9/08 and I could hardly stand and was shaking from the pain. I had an ultrasound and was told I had a hematoma in my groin and was given percocet and sent home to follow up with my cardiologist. I saw my doctor on 3/13/08 and was informed they may have hit a nerve either going in or taking out the cath. I was put on disability till 4/7/08 and was given more pain meds, but I am still in pain going down my thigh and up to my waist and hip. It is hard to get comfortable sleeping or standing their must be something else that can be done to correct this I am only 41. Please advise me who else I can see or what else I should do.
Edward E., New Jersey, USA, March 17, 2008

• Linda -- as you have read, many other patients have the same complaints. It's one of the reasons that we've been writing about the idea of less invasive testing in those patients who are "indeterminate" -- e.g., where a stress test might be inconclusive. Your case is a perfect example of how 64-slice CT angiograms can be of benefit. No catheter is used. The test cost far less than a standard catheterization. The test takes 15 minutes and is 99+% accurate for excluding coronary blockages.

As for your appointment, we apologize for not being able to respond instantly and we don't give medical advice, but if you took a few minutes to read the over 400 posts in this topic from other patients, you'd have seen that unfortunately you have company. Please let us know how you make out with your appointment.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, March 11, 2008

• Susan from Ohio -- DVT occurs in the vein, although the catheterization is done via the femoral artery. However, it's not unknown as a complication. Here's a journal article, published in 2005, titled "Deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism following cardiac catheterization". The article isn't available online, but it would answer your question: Yes.

And Cherilyn from Illinois -- it would be hard to think that a retroperitoneal bleed (a serious complication of catheter-based angiography) from 6 years ago would suddenly be causing problems. We would suggest seeing your doctor or cardiologist, at least to rule out something else.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, March 11, 2008

• I had an angiogram in my right leg. No angioplasty needed. 2 weeks later, I experienced a swollen right leg from ankle to groin. Turned out is was a DVT in my groin vein. Is it possible to experience a DVT [Deep Vein Thrombosis] after an angiogram or is it a coincidence? I have no other periods of inactivity. thanks.
Susan Brown, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, March 7, 2008

• I had a heart cath in 2002, they used an angioseal. The day after I had sharp shooting pains into my abdomen. I went to the ER and had a doppler which they said was fine. I almost passed out from the pain when they were up higher than the site. I was unable to straighten up to walk since the pain was so severe. I went back to the ER after a few days and they finally did a CT scan. They found a retroperitoneal bleed. I was hospitalized for two days. My problem now is that I am having increasing right groin pain radiating into my thigh after I have been walking for awhile. Sometimes it goes clear down to my knee. I am wondering if this is from scar tissue at this late date and who I should see about this?
Cherilyn S., Illinois, USA, March 7, 2008

• I am 54 and just had a angiogram / heart catheter - with an angioseal in the right femoral artery. The stress test had showed that I may have had poor circulation to the left ventricle. The cardiologist told me the [stress] test was only 80% accurate and that to know for sure, I had to have an angiogram. The procedure seemed to go rapidly and fortunately showed that I have minimal blockage to the heart blood supply. The doctor said he will treat this with medication. The next day, I had so much pain in my groin, that the doctor ordered a doppler to see if everything is ok - The doppler did not show any problems. I have still had this pain ever since then. I have a terrible bruise all over my groin area, extending under the skin over my pubic bone and into the right labia. I also have bruises on top of my thigh and the inner thigh. The pain I feel is almost like a burning hot poker is grinding into my groin. - Mostly when I have been standing or walking for more than 5 minutes. Sitting is uncomfortable too unless I am almost fully reclined. It is difficult to find a comfortable position. Please respond ASAP. I am going back for a check-up tomorrow. What can I ask my cardiologist to look at?
Linda Carroll, Chicago, Illinois, USA, March 6, 2008

• Hi Lynda, He has now had more ultrasound tests and also a full nerve testing - including pricks, etc. And then back to the cardiologist this morning. Bottom line - my dad seems to be improving on his own. He is still occasionally having a 'burning sensation', but the episodes are becoming less painful. Also, he is learning what positions bring on the pain. Bending over, such as to tie a shoe or even to get up out of a low chair, seems to bring on the pain. Therefore, he avoids those positions, and he even at times can tell when the pain is beginning, and can sometimes adjust and the pain will stop. Okay,now back to what the doctor said. Basically, nothing. But we do like this doctor. He did say the nerve was damaged during the cath, and that it sometimes takes up to at least 6 months or more for a nerve to heal. He did not see anything that would require more surgery to correct. He mentioned medications, such as neurontin, but since Daddy does seem to be improving - ever so slightly and slowly - he recommended doing nothing at this point. We also, believe fully in the power of prayer, and thank God for Daddy's improvement. Hope this helps you. How is your husband doing?
J.L., Mississippi, USA, March 11, 2008

• To JL IN MISSISSIPPI, It's me, Lynda in NY--Just wondering about how you and your Dad made out with those tests on his leg burning issue! Any answers yet? Please keep in touch-Lynda (Good Luck)
Lynda, Westchester County, New York, USA, March 9, 2008

• To JL IN MISSISSIPPI! Thank-you for your response. I would be VERY interested in your Dad's test results. My husband benefits greatly from the 900 mg. of daily Neurontin. I strongly suggest you talk to your Dad's doctor about this medication. It could possibly help your Dad too! I know it has been a Godsend for my husband -- Good luck and I am eagerly awaiting an update. Thanks Lynda
Lynda, New York, USA, March 3, 2008

• Lynda, Thanks for your response. I can't understand why the doctors are just ignoring this life altering problem. I am not going to tell my father that your husband is after 2 years still having pain. He is very optimistic at the moment - between the pains - that maybe he is healing.!! He is having nerve tests done today, and we will get the results of the ultrasound (done last week) and this test tomorrow. He still is 'house bound', will not sleep in his bed, and will not attempt to drive. I will let you know what the tests show, and what this new doctor says. Thanks.
J.L., Mississippi, USA, March 3, 2008

• Not sure why I wasn't awake for the procedure. I did receive three blood transfusions while on the lab table and in cardiac care. An FAP [Femoral Artery Pseudoaneurysm, ed.] developed at the catheter site. 2 days later the cardiologists attempted a thrombin injection to reduce the FAP, with no results. The next day, I was released to go home with no clear conception of what an FAP was or what could happen should it rupture. 2 days later, I began experiencing severe angina and abdominal pains, I was re-admitted into the hospital. The next day an ultrasound showed that that FAP wasn't bleeding but had become larger. The next my cardiologist attempted another Thrombin Injection, with no results. The next day I underwent vascular surgery to repair the FAP. It was repaired successfully. I still have abdominal (right side)discomfort. I also have a low-grade fever and chills at times I was told that I'll have pain and fevers until all the blood in my retroperitoneal cavity has been re-absorbed. I also still have chest pains radiating into my left arm with shortness of breath. I explained this to my my cardiologist during follow-up check-up, but he did nothing about it. So I wonder if this is something I'll have to live with for the rest of my life.
S. Duke, Alabama, USA, March 3, 2008

• TO: JL in MISSISSIPPI! My husband had the exact same experience as your Dad! He was admitted on a Tues. and had 2 angiograms and an AICD implant done. He was released the following day (noon). About 2 weeks later he started experiencing the burning and "on fire" feeling on his upper leg in the area where the angio was done (twice!). We couldn't get any answers from any of the Docs either! Since then, which was 2 years ago, my husband is being maintained on a drug called Neurontin (900 mg DAILY!). No one is going to tell me that this problem is not a direct result of that horrible 24 hours in the hospital for those procedures! By the way...My husband NEVER had this "problem" BEFORE the procedures were done! I hope this information may benefit others! PLEASE speak to your doctors about it!
Lynda, New York, USA, March 1, 2008

• S. Duke -- curious as to why you were not awake -- usually the patient is for these procedures. What seems to have occurred was a pseudoaneurysm at the catheter access site, which is a known complication from interventional procedures, anywhere from 1-5%, depending on which study you read. What happens is the layers of the artery (used for catheter access) sort of buckle. This can be serious, due to blood loss -- especially in current practice, because patients today are often given powerful anticoagulants and blood thinners to prevent serious blood clotting during the procedure. Quick diagnosis and repair of this complication is critical. The "why" in each case can differ and is a question the interventional cardiologist who did the procedure may be able to explain better to you. How are you now? Did you receive a transfusion? Have you healed OK?
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, March 1, 2008

• On 01-22-08, I had an angioplasty requiring two stents. I was not awake during the procedure. However, I awoke to the most excruciating pain my abdominal area. So much so, that I was screaming out in pain and eventually lost consciousness. According to my cardiologist, I lost three pints of blood and a false aneurysm developed at the catheter insertion site (femoral artery/groin area). I don't quite understand what caused the bleed out and aneurysm. Can anyone help me to understand what may have happened to cause all this????
S. Duke, Alabama, USA, February 29, 2008

• Update. I am going to the surgery center in two days. The doctor who specializes in pain is going to go deep in the hip area with a steroid injection to the femoral nerve. It is done with some type of dye imaging to help guide the needle. The injection although said to be painful for a few days afterwards is suppose to offer relief. It is local and delivered directly to the nerve. The doctor said this will be much better because steroids taken systemically have side affects. I found some relief in the interim period from steroids, dilaudid, neurontin and percocet. I still haven't slept lying down for a month, now. I still can't drive nor can I stand for very long. So must gingerly adjust my position frequently to keep pain intensity bearable. Thank you for the information about the Radial Access procedure.
G., Arizona, USA, February 26, 2008

• Thank you for your response. We saw another cardiologist today, who is ordering more ultrasound tests and also nerve tests. I do not know what type closure was used. But I am thankful that this doctor is taking my father and his report of the pain seriously.
J.L., Mississippi, USA, February 26, 2008

• Terru -- as you can see, you are not alone in your complaint. This may go away, but you should call your cardiologist and let him/her know of your problem. Let us know how things go.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, February 25, 2008

• I just had an angiogram 3 days ago and experiencing extreme pain in my right calf. I have a 2 story home and have to climb stairs to get to my bed...Can there be something wrong? I haven't been able to return to work or drive.
Terru, San Antonio, Texas, USA, February 25, 2008

• J.L. -- the bruising right after the cath is called a hematoma, basically blood that leaks out of the femoral puncture site under the skin. It's considered a minor complication and, as it did, usually goes away. The continuous pain, however, is something that, as you have noted, many posters in this and related topics have complained about. Unfortunately, some of them have ongoing problems. Sometimes, the femoral nerve, which lies alongside the femoral artery, gets traumatized, sometimes pinched. Again this can go away with time, but some patients have written in that they've seen a neurologist for further diagnosis. Do you know if a femoral closure device was used and, if so, which one -- or did they use manual pressure? Check out the related topics on the right as well.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, February 25, 2008

• My father, 80 years old, but in excellent physical health, had a heart cath performed on December 26, 2007. There was extensive bruising and discoloration around the site of the entry on his groin area, but after a week or so, this cleared. He experienced some pain in that area for several weeks, but after about 6 weeks, he has started having EXTREME pain in his thigh and down his right leg. So much so that he cannot move it and he says the pain is excruciating - that it feels like lightning is hitting his leg. The first time it happened we went to the emergency room, with fear of a blood clot - but an 'ultrasound' showed no clotting. He was sent home with muscle relaxers and pain medicine. This did not seem to help, but he is still having these shooting pains once or twice every couple of days. We have called his heart doctor who seems to be just ignoring this problem. He went back to his regular doctor and he gave him steroids, - which is now keeping him awake and making him extremely nervous. We cannot seem to get anyone to actually diagnose this and everyone seems to just be masking the problem. I read on this board where some of you have had this same experience. Does it go away on its own? Should we continue to be looking for a doctor that will find the problem? Is there help out there somewhere? We are so frustrated! He, who is normally a very active and outgoing man, is becoming house ridden and he says losing his confidence of living on his own. Thank you for any help you can give us.
J.L., Mississippi, USA, February 25, 2008

• We're answering two posts:

Dana in Louisiana -- your father may be having a reaction to the contrast dye that is injected to make the arteries visible under X-ray. Call the physician or clinic that did the angiogram and let them know.

And Robin in Utah -- here's a 2002 journal reference (in CCI) for a small study, done in, of all places, Utah! It's titled, "Elective coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention during uninterrupted warfarin therapy" and concludes that PCI can be considered in patients who must stay on Coumadin (warfarin). The 23 patients had an INR range from 1.8-3.5 and the access site was closed with AngioSeal. Note that the study was funded by St. Jude, manufacturers of AngioSeal -- we'd assume they hoped to show that use of their femoral closure device could help prevent bleeding in these anticoagulated patients, which it did (there were no minor or major bleeding complications).

We'd also suggest looking over our "Radial Access Center" -- which discusses how the radial approach from the wrist is very useful in patients who must remain anticoagulated. Of course, you need to have a cardiologist trained in the technique. Our "Hospital Locator" shows two hospitals in Utah that practice radial: Columbia Lakeview Hospital in Bountiful and Davis Hospital and Medical Center in North Salt Lake.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, February 23, 2008

• My question is is there any national standards on femoral groin access when patient is on coumadin? How high is too high on the INR to access or not access when patient is scheduled for an elective procedure?
Robin, Utah, USA, February 21, 2008

• My dad had a carotid angiogram yesterday. Today he is complaining with intense burning feeling in his head and eye pain. Is this to be expected?
Dana A., Louisiana, USA, February 19, 2008

• Dear Mary from Berwickshire, I was looking for information on symptoms that my husband was having 2 weeks after his surgery and read your story. His pain sounded identical to yours so I let them know that I believed he had a pseudoaneurysm. With much persuading, they relented to do an ultrasound on him the next day and found a huge aneurysm that was so ready to burst that they wouldn't even let him off the table, but did a procedure on him right then and there with no anesthetic. I just want you to know that you probably saved his life by telling your story, and I want to thank you for it. He is still having pain from the damage, mainly at night. The pain runs into his back and down his leg sometimes as far as his big toe and sometimes he has to take morphine because it gets so bad. He also has a large area on the inside of his knee that is numb. If possible, you might try acupuncture for your nerve damage, I've had really good results with that personally. Please email me at wooleylegs(at)shaw(dot)ca if there is anything I can do.
Marie, Canada, February 16, 2008

• These stories of injuries and complications are what prompted us at Angioplasty.Org to launch a special section on "Radial Access", where the catheter is inserted in the wrist. It's a technique that was first done in the late 1990's. It's done much more outside the U.S. than inside, and you can read more about it in our Radial Access Center. While no procedure is without complications, the cardiologists who do radial access say that the complications are much lower than with the femoral (groin) access. Still complications in the femoral access are only about 3%.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, February 11, 2008

• I am so sorry you are going through this. Your story sounds like mine. I have nerve damage and that break-through pain that is unbearable. The doctor says it isn't permanent damage but it may take up to a year to heal. I am on many meds for the pain. I have been referred to a pain center as well. I want to go to a chiropractor but the doctors warn me not to as it could lead to permanent nerve damage. I will be heading for the pain center soon.
G., Arizona, USA, February 11, 2008

• I had an angiogram on Nov 27th 06. The nurse had problems taking the sheath out of my groin after 6 hrs. It was excruciating and she had to give me morphine to enable her to take it out. I complained of a numbness to my knee and the groin area very sore, made to get up next morning 6am to go home. Told all fine. Pain got worse and worse saw GP twice went to A&E. Sent home week later -- pain so bad went back to GP. Sent to hospital -- had a pseudoaneurysm. They had to operate to repair. pain horrendous and leg giving way. had no follow up care had to fight for any help I could get eventually sent to pain clinic have femoral nerve damage had to wear leg brace and use crutches given bagfuls of pain killers all in denial of the problem. registered disabled now cannot go walking or cycling, swimming with my grand children go traveling cannot sit for long everything you try to do is painful. Sometimes flares up to such intensity that it is too much to bear. My sister died while I was in hospital and I should have been with her if they hadn't messed my leg up. Now 14 months later I am in intense pain have to wear Tens machine and patches it is a nightmare my life has come to a standstill. Be glad to hear from other sufferers.
Mary Jackman, Berwickshire, Scottish Borders, February 10, 2008

• I had a heart cath dec 10 2007 and found out i was born with main artery to my heart.. Found that i have grown a very large artery to my heart on my right side that has made up for that which the blood pumps up from the bottom of this artery to my heart. Feb 4 2008 I had bladder surgery and is still having a lot of pain which the Dr tells me that i should not be having still... the pain is mostly on my right side.in the groin area. right where the heart cath was done. Does any one know if they might have done the bladder too soon from the heart cath? I am to return to work on 2-11-08 and am not feeling like something is not right.
Cindy, Kansas, USA, February 8, 2008

• Follow-up: I called my cardiologist about my leg pain. He asked me to go to the ER for an ultrasound. This was to detect a hematoma. I do not have one but was admitted for observation. They say it may be my sciatic nerve but also say it will get better as things heal. I hope it does as I am on percocet now for the pain. The cardiologist says my primary care physician would have to handle the sciatic problem. I hope it resolves itself quickly as I cannot drive with my leg like this and I walk rather slowly and I sit to sleep which isn't restful.
G., Arizona, USA, January 29, 2008

• After my heart catheterization on Sept.19,2007, I developed a pseudoaneurysm. The femoral artery and the vein developed a fistula. I had 2 more caths. The cardiologist tried to close the fistula twice but the darn thing healed on it's own. I am thankful that my drs kept close eye on the whole thing while it healed up on it's own. It was quite painful and I was barely able to walk. But I would recommend that anyone having a problem with the site after angiogram or catheterization see the performing cardiologist sooner than later. I felt that my problems were not life threatening and did not want to bother anyone. Any problems will be addressed by the cardiologist if he/she is informed of their existence. Call your doctor, and trust them to help. But they must first be informed.
R.G., Wisconsin, USA, January 29, 2008

• Dan B, Dutchess County I had angiogram in January 2007, about an hour after the procedure I had tingling in my left lip and numbness down left side of face and weakness left side of body. Nurse called doctor who felt it was a TIA. Next day they discharged me stating that it should rectify itself within a few days. Went to my doctor a week later the symptoms no better he wanted to readmit me saying that I had had a stroke. The cardiologist said this was not possible. Been to see a neurologist who was great to start with but MRI showed nothing and then the neurologist basically said that it was psychological (this was after I had put a complaint in about the cardiologist coincidentally due to lack of aftercare). I am no further on. Left sided weakness in arm and leg, numbness in face and lip and my lip droops down, pins and needles in head. A physio said that there is definite weakness but neuro consultant has stated "what would they know". Some days I feel really miserable and nowhere to turn. Any suggestions for second opinions.
Debbie D., Sheffield, UK, January 28, 2008

• 4 days ago I had a Heart Cath. I have a purple and red bruise across my pelvis about 8" x 2" there is tenderness and a lump at the cath site. The problem is my right thigh, the same side as the cath. It is very painful. Feels like a sciatic and started in the hospital but is getting worse. The pain is causing nausea. I cannot hold down food. But these are not the real problems. The pain if I move ever so slightly in the wrong way causes me to scream out. I would like to know what to do about this. I have not been back to the cardiologist since being released from the hospital the day after the cath. There is no way I could even drive with my leg like this. Your help would be appreciated. Thank you!
G., Arizona, USA, January 27, 2008

• My 70 year old mother had a stent put in through the groin area on the 21st. We have just today noticed quite a bit of bruising and of course the dime sized lump. Also, there is a bit of swelling on the bruise. I'm afraid she might be bleeding, but hopefully not. She says that there is no severe pain, just soreness in the groin and also right under her behind. I'm assuming this is normal, however. After reading several of the posts on here, I must say I'm not as worried anymore. I really hope all of you start feeling better.
Sissy, Arkansas, USA, January 24, 2008

• C. in Pennsylvania -- check out our Forum Topic on "Vascular Closure Devices" which contains many posts from patients who have had Angio-Seal, StarClose, etc. placed.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, January 20, 2008

• December 2004 I had a heart catheterization The angio-seal was used. After walking to the bathroom & back, upon sitting I experienced excruciating pain at the site. It was a nightmare. The nurse refused to respond to my pain, telling me that no one else complained of pain. Meanwhile in the halls volunteers were Christmas caroling. It was macabre. I gone through child birth without pain medication and I have broken my back. This was excruciating & I was told that it was nothing. My husband refused to leave the floor until the nurse would medicate me for the pain. I was checked for clots-none. I went home & had pain in my leg & notified the doctor. It was brushed aside. My GP later told me there is a nerve pack and it was most likely irritated. Three years later & I can no longer ride my exercise bike due to groin pain. I cannot run, due to groin pain. At other times for no reason I have pain in my groin at the site. This procedure has resulted in life changing complications.
C., Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, USA, January 18, 2008

• Hi! My husband just had an angiogram yesterday, he is only 28 yrs old and the test showed no real problems. After recovering for 3 hrs they tried to get him out of bed and he started having extreme pain in his leg where the procedure was done. The pain is in his inner thigh and is about the size of a football, he says it even hurts to touch the hair on his leg. He describes the pain as burning and stinging and like nothing he has experienced before. When they closed the artery they used something called a Star Closure. Does anyone know what this pain could be and what we should do about it? He is in such severe pain and it's like the doctors and nurses don't believe him.
M. Scott, Fresno, California, USA, January 18, 2008

• Tracy -- how long ago was your cath? Many of these complications do subside with time. If you're not getting recognition of your pain by your healthcare provider, keep trying. As you can see, these are not unknown. However, there are not hundreds of thousands of people every day having these. The complication rate is relatively low (although not if you happen to be the one with the complication). Like any test or pedical procedure -- there is always a risk, which is why most medical groups and associations recommend getting them only if there is a good reason which may impact treatment.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, January 14, 2008

• I had two stents placed in my heart, one in the left leg and two in the right leg. The calf cramps went away, however, after a day of relative activity, I wake up at least three or four times a night with leg pain and back of thigh spasms. Is this normal? I would appreciate some feed back...
Sandra D., Georgia, USA, January 13, 2008

• i want some advice on how to help im in constant pain and i am being told there is nothing i can do to help my self why is this procedure going so wrong to hundreds of thousends of people every day please i am looking forward to your response thank you
Tracy Cotterill, United Kingdom, January 13, 2008

• i had a angiogram on the 20th of november 2007 and the doctor who did it hurt me . when he tried to put catheter in he hit scar tissue and sent needle off target hurting me , he asked me if that was hurting as i was tensing up i said yes and he pulled needle out to try again . he got catheter in second time.by the next day i was black and blue and swollen . for 3 months i have not been able to get an erection and i am thinking i may have some nerve damage , [ i hope not ] . i have been on blood pressure tablets since august 2007 and never had a problem getting an erection and since i had this angiogram and he hurt me i have not been able to get an erection . i have been to my GP and i am now trying Viagra hopefully this this is all i need to fix my problem but i think i have nerve damage . the good thing i have no pain at all groin or legs like other people. thanx Les
Les, Australia, January 13, 2008

• I am only 43 & have fibromyalgia & was recently sent to a neurologist who ordered several MRIs & an MRA. The MRA incorrectly showed that my carotid artery was 90% narrowed. I was sent to a radiologist/surgeon for an angiogram which proved the artery was 100% clear! I asked both drs before if there was another less invasive test that could be done. Both said, no. I was told there were no risks & I would be up later that day with no pain or problems with no later scars, significant bruises, or any other complications or risks. During the procedure 10/15/07, they tore a 2" strip of my left vertebral artery. My stomach, groin, & both legs (entire) were swollen for over 2 months (some swelling still remains). My right leg was bruised from stomach to below knee for over 2 months (was on Heparin 3 days in hospital & then on Plavix for 2 mo. due to artery tear). I also still have a large, 5" diam., painful hematoma. (This is big since I am only 5' tall, 97 lbs.) I also have jerking of my leg & tingling which is somewhat better. The radiologist says he's done with me & has no answers. He wouldn't even do a followup visit to see the hematoma. The torn artery has healed smooth but is more narrow than normal. My general dr said to wait 1 yr & then look for risky surgery options if hematoma is not gone. Is there anything I can do in meantime to help hematoma go away? Are there any risks in the artery having been damaged & now narrowed? Are there any precautions I should take with the hematoma or the artery? Thanks for any advice. Also, to anyone waiting for an angiogram, please insist on more than 1 less invasive test before taking the risk of the angiogram. I was clueless & naive.
Carol L., Michigan, USA, January 4, 2008

• Jeff -- could you clarify? You were the first person to have what(?) done after a Heart Cath?
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, January 3, 2008

• Hello.. I am 34 years old. I was the first person to have this done after a Heart Cath... I was able to go 2 years before the hospitals would listen. I had told them that my groin was swelling and I was having difficulty walking. Just 3 weeks ago I had it removed and almost lost my right left cause the device broke off from the artery and infected my whole leg!
Jeff, Ohio, USA, December 31, 2007

• I had angioplasty on my RCA 2 years ago. I woke from the procedure with a numb left arm and pins and needles feeling in my left hand, Also numbness on the left side of my face and nose. Also numbness in the left orbit of my left eye. Cardiologist said that was not an outcome of the procedure. Neurologists since have said it was not a stroke and can find nothing wrong. My symptoms keep getting worse. Now my left pupil is always small. (Horners Syndrome) has this happened to anyone else after angioplasty? I have read posts that talk about nerve damage to legs but I seem to have come away with damage to the nerve that runs along the Carotid artery. Does anyone else have similar issues.
Dan B, Dutchess County, New York , USA, December 27, 2007

• My husband (45) had a PVAI on Nov. 13. They go thru the vein not the artery. However, upon completion of the procedure (it took 6 hrs), he had extreme pain in testicles and down left leg. He bled externally from the right groin entry site post op, they applied pressure and it stopped. He was released to go home next day, before leaving he felt warm running down leg. HE checked, no external bleeding. By time we got home, pain was intensifying. By next morning went to ER. Had Pseudoaneurysm, took 90 minutes of US compression. Still extreme pain and inability to lift left leg. 3 Days later pseudoaneurysm was back did second compression. Ended up having surgery to repair nick in femoral Artery. 5 days later had to have HUGE hemotoma removed and drains place into thigh. Still continues to have severe leg pain and numbness down inside of left thigh to just below the knee. Anyone give any insight on why or what is causing this. Vascular dr. seems short on reasons right now.
Y., Johnstown, Pennsylvania, USA, December 19, 2007

• My mom had a heart cath in her groin a month ago. developed a hematoma..Her thigh is all black and blue and huge (looks like burnt out circles ) on her thighs. Swollen all the way to knee..a little better but looks nasty as hell..what went wrong. now going to rehab..
X., New York, USA, December 12, 2007

• My grandmother just had an angiogram in Grand Forks and they nicked the artery on the way out and had major bleeding and was in ICU. We were scared she was going to die. She has bloating now.... is this?
Jennifer, North Dakota, USA, December 12, 2007

• Aodh -- Congratulations -- we're glad that you did not have any complications from the angiogram -- and that your coronary arteries were clear. And, although it may be hard to believe after reading the postings on this Forum, you're in the vast majority. The complication rate for an angiogram done through the femoral (groin) approach is usually published as somewhere between 3-4% -- this includes relatively minor complications like small hematomas which go away on their own, but also more significant ones. We (and a number of cardiologists we talk to) believe the number is higher, maybe more like 3-6%, because many of these go unreported. Of course (and we're surely not the first to say so) we would strongly urge you to use that same resolve you describe to stop your two-pack-a-day smoking habit -- you seem to be in good shape, so why not optimize your situation.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, December 10, 2008

• Dear Folks, I am a 50 year old Irish male, I have two brothers who had cardiac events one before 50 and the other just after 50. Neither smoked. On reaching 50 myself I became aware of a pain at the bottom of my left rib cage. I was worried for a number of months and decided I couldn't continue with the uncertainty. I had an appointment made with a cardiologist. Done the treadmill stress test and the Echocardiogram. I smoke 2 packets of cigarettes a day myself. The cardiologist said there were a few glitches on the tests and he recommended an angiogram. Well this put the fear of God in me, I was scared. petrified and terrorised with the thought of having to undergo an invasive test. I delayed the decision but came to the conclusion that I had no other option. I read all the forums in respect of angiograms but they didn't ease my anxiety. Yesterday was D day, I went to the hospital at the appointed time, had the preparations carried out and down to the cath lab. The radiologist done her work and the cardiologist done his. I felt absolutely NO pain. The procedure is without pain and lasted about 15 minutes. I watched my engine pump away on the monitors and was enthralled by the heart. Against all the markers, gender, age, smoker, family history - the cardiologist announced that my arteries were as clean as a whistle, I was elated. I went for the angiogram on the basis it was to save my life and not to kill me. The reason I make this post is to dissolve the fears of any person facing an angiogram, they are painless and the results where negative will permit treatment that will maintain you life for many many years. So go for it - don't believe the negative stuff, I'd have another one tomorrow without a flinch. Slainte (Good Health)
Aodh M., Ireland, December 5, 2007

• A. from Florida -- thanks for your post. We're glad that your problem was identified. But we're curious -- you were diagnosed with a 90% blockage. Did you get an angioplasty or stent? But your experience tells an important story: while medications can sometimes have unwanted side effects, the dosages and/or types can be adjusted -- so it is very important that all patients report these side effects to their cardiologists. Please let the Forum know how you make out.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, November 29, 2007

• I am 57 years old woman who was complaining to my doctor that I had a sore throat and was experiencing pain in my esophagus. I was told to go to the emergency room, which I had a terrible experience and ended in ICU for 3 days. Afterwards, I was discharged and the next day called to be readmitted because my ekg, echocardiogram, stress was abnormal. They wanted me to have a heart catheterization. Since they made wrong diagnosis earlier, I wanted to get a second opinion. Thank God for so many friends that were praying for me, believe me I was scared, by the grace of God I didn't experience a heart attack. The cardiologist that I went to see was very calm, I asked him if he would be able to do the procedures. It was a blessing in disguise that I went in for a severe sore throat, because I turn out to be that that I had a 90% blockage, the cardiologist was very surprised. The problem that I am having is the medications I am taking. Many of them are giving me side effects, like cramping in my leg. I do experience like many of you pain. Sometimes I am lying down I get pain. I get up I get somewhat relieve, It is a continuous cycle. I been given Atenolol which does cause cramping in the legs. The zocor for the cholesterol doesn't help either. Tomorrow, Lord permitting I will be seeing my cardiologist. Every morning Is a new day that God has given me. ! I am so thankful for that!
A., Florida, USA, November 28, 2007

• Hi there. I am 36 and had an angio in September 2007 after which they used the "vice" and had no real problems afterward. November 6th 2007 I had a full (right and left) heart cath, where my (different dr. from prior procedure) Cardio had a difficult time gaining access on the right leg and therefore punctured my leg 3 times. Left leg access was gained after the first puncture. I am not sure what they did as far as "closing" but did not use the vice this time. Had horrible pain from the get go. VERY large hematoma on right side and small one on left. Large lump on right, smaller on left, still present. The main complaint however is the extreme pain on the inside of my right thigh and down to just below my knee (on the inside also). Even when my clothing touches it, it about sends me through the roof. At times also feels numb and cool to the touch. Is this possibly nerve pain?? If so, how long should it last and is it common? My toes have been really cold also since the test too. Thanks so much. Good luck to you all and Happy Holidays!
Carrie, Blaine, Washington, USA, November 26, 2007

• Catherine: My husband's angiogram was 11-6-07 and he also had internal bleeding and a couple hematomas. His doctor ordered an ultrasound, which revealed a pseudoaneurysm. They injected thrombin, which alleviated his extreme pain almost immediately. However, he has had a lot of pain since then. It hurts to walk and sit. His doctor ordered another ultrasound last week, just to make sure there were no more complications. He will finally return to work tomorrow, but is definitely not back to normal.. A week after the procedure, the doctor said it may take 2 weeks to recover. 2 weeks after, he said it may take 3 weeks to recover. Now, he's at 3 weeks, so we're just happy that he seems to be making progress.
Karen, Chicago, Illinois, USA, November 26, 2007

• My mom had many complications with the catheterization in the groin. She was released from the hospital on a Thursday, and back to the ER by Friday with a high fever and severe pain in her groin. Over 12 hours later, no one had any idea what was wrong. The doctor didn't even want to say she had an infection. A few hours later, the nurses realized she was bleeding internally at the cath site. The nurses put a femoral clamp on to stop the bleeding. For 14 hours the pressurized clamp was left on my mother and no amount of morphine cut her pain. A couple days later when we had gone to see the heart doc, he was very confused to see this blistery/hard mass on her groin. Mom told the doc about how long the pump was on and he told us that it should have been left on for 45 minutes with the pressure. After the 45 minutes, the pressure should have been released but the clamp would stay. This is not what happened. 2 days ago, the heart doc. referred mom to a dermatologist. The dermatologist cut off the mass at her groin because the skin was dead and could possibly turn into a bad infection. We were told by the doc that this was not a normal complication. Because the clamp was left on so long, mom may not have full feeling in her leg again. What is protocol for this? Is this someone's fault?
C.H., California, USA, November 25, 2007

• I had my cath on Aug 17, 2007. I still can't sit up on a hard surface or in a non-reclining position for more than a few minutes, or I will get very dizzy and have blood pressure fluctuations. I can't drive. I can't stand for long periods of time without the same symptoms. I did have inverted hematomas (2) and ended up with a hemorrhagic cyst on my ovary that had to be removed. If I climb the stairs or walk very much my leg hurts a lot. I am so tired all the time also. I have never had a situation where I feel like I am not improving every day or week like this. It sure is a far cry from "you'll be able to walk your 5 miles tomorrow" - I haven't walked past the mailbox in three months!!!
Lynda H., Alabama, USA, November 18, 2007

• We recommend to posters to also look under "related topics" in the right-hand side-bar about "Vascular Closure Devices". Bleeding complications, hematomas, etc. occur in about 3-4% of femoral artery access cases (both diagnostic caths and angioplasties). They happen for a number of reasons, and some physicians think the rate is higher than that. Nerve damage is less common, but also occurs. We recommend to all patients who are having any kind of problem post-cath to contact the cardiologist who did the procedure and to follow-up if the problem is not resolved. Some physicians are beginning to learn the transradial technique which uses the radial artery in the wrist for access -- has the advantages of a lower complication rate, and does not require the patient to lie still on their backs for hours (which is a discomfort and can definitely cause back pain). You can read more about this technique in our Radial Access Center.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, November 18, 2007

• Hi had angiogram on November 15, 2007 -- procedure was ok and they fitted me with an angioseal. I was released 2 hours post op,11 later had dreadful pain in my groin and as I looked could see a lump growing, is was so quick looked like an alien, was taken to a&e who said I had a hematoma but it does happen to some patients, 1 in 200, I just seem unlucky. My blood pressure went very high and I am a chronic asthmatic to which I have Nebulizers and oxygen at home, this all kicked in as well. Since being home I have right sided back ache and still getting pain in my now very black groin. After my angio I mentioned back pain to my nurse and she said it was because of the bed, this I find difficult to agree, has anyone else had these back pains.
D. Warren, Essex, United Kingdom, November 17, 2007

• My mom had an angiogram 11-5-07 and has had major complications with internal bleeding and a large hematoma. The doctor says this is all normal but over a week later, she is in extreme pain and can still barely walk. Does this sound normal? I have done a little research on this, as well as reading some of the posts you have here. I really think she may have a pseudoaneurysm. How do I convince the Dr. to take another look?
Catherine, Santa Cruz, California, USA, November 14, 2007

• Greg -- could be a reaction to the contrast dye used during caths.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, November 14, 2007

• Broke out in rash or hives all over my body after the procedure. Anyone know about this. Thanks. Greg
Greg, Brooklyn, New York, USA, November 13, 2007

• I am 40 year old male who had a heart cath after 2 failed stress test. I am a firefighter/paramedic, and I am being forced to go on disability because of the failed stress tests, and this is because of our standards. I had the heart cath done to check out my arteries, afterward they put in an angio seal. Less than 2 weeks later my right big toe had pain, then a burning sensation, and now it goes numb, turns waxy white, and sometimes purple. I had a arterial lower extremity study done, and the doctor read it wrong. I went to a vascular surgeon, and he said the test does show a blockage, and I will probably lose my toe. I tried to get in with the cardiologist for 2 weeks shortly after my pain, but I have only seen one of his nurses who suggested it may be gout, and not related to the heart cath. when I did see the cardiologist, one month later, he first said it couldn't be from the heart cath or a blood clot, because I would have had symptoms within 2-3 days. I told him that blood clots don't have time lines, and then showed him the arterial test, and then he started to say it could be a blood clot or even a piece of the angio seal. So now I sit and wait for my toe to fall off.
Gary Church, Troy, Ohio, USA, November 10, 2007

• I had an angiogram on Nov. 2nd, 2007. I still have some pain / tenderness in my groin area as well as a huge bruise all on my right side from my upper thigh to abdomen. My abdomen/stomach is extremely bloated/distended. I called the cardiologist and he said he didn't think it had anything to do with the angiogram and for me to call my PCP. I'm not able to wear any of my clothes because of the swelling. Has anyone else had this bloating after an angiogram?
SS, Texas, USA, November 8, 2007

• I also had a heart catheterization three months ago. since then I have severe pain in the groin area and hip. After the procedure, they placed the sand bags on me, than removed them and placed a clamp. They tightened the clamp so much, causing extreme pain. This was done by the nurses in recovery. Now I am unable to sit for periods of time, have pain when driving or walking. I can no longer exercise. The doctors have done a CT, MRI, but does now show anything. They do not understand why I am in so much pain. I know these tests do not show nerve damage. Does anyone know if this pain eventually goes away?
Ann P, New Jersey, USA, November 7, 2007

• I had a Heart Catheterization in May (5 months ago), no problems at first with leg pain, but now right leg (where the catheterization was done) is numb and very painful, also left leg and now arms. Don't know what to do? Seeing a neuro muscular specialist and I'm scared to death. By the way the bovine collagen never was absorbed. Could that be a source of my problems? Anyone else have anything like this? Would love to find out why this is happening...
Bert, Powell, Ohio, USA, October 27, 2007

• Shelly: I too have the Angio seal and more problems than I wish I had. Mine was done on 9/5/2007. Before I was even taken off the table, I had a severe pain on the inside of my thigh running from my groin to about 4 inches down, it felt as though someone had stabbed me. I could not hardly get out of bed in the hospital, because of pain in my side and leg. The night nurse said I must have bleeding and pressed down on the angio seal, causing much pain and tears. It seemed not to get any better, but the pain was dulled with medication the next two days. Then came the onset of the worst cramps that I have experienced. Finally sonograms, cat scans, scopes at both ends came up with nothing - except I had severe cramps and pain. After several weeks of numerous visits to my heart specialist office and several different heart specialists, they sent me to a chiropractor because they thought my pelvis might be pinching something. She has helped quite a bit with my cramps but not the pain. Finally a neurologist has found that I have Femoral Nerve damage (pain could go on as long as 1 year, really good news to my ears). I am on a medication that people with seizures take - to cut the nerve pain away from the brain. Hopefully this will work, but still I am fatigued and do not feel up to par totally. I go to work, but my boss does not believe me that I have a problem, but he never thinks that I have any problems, because I look okay on the outside. My husband also acts like I am making things up (like missing my grand kids' soccer games and not going to see them-things that I do enjoy so much). Hang in there -- there has to be a rainbow at the end of this storm somewhere.
FF, New York, USA, October 21, 2007

• Had MRI neurography done in CA by Dr. Aaron Filler. Found two nerves trapped and others inflamed. Did surgery Oct 7th and found abnormal tissue and scar tissue said came from whatever they put in me. It was the angio-seal device. Doing better now still recovering. If interested I can give Dr. Filler's info for others suffering from this problem. I pray this surgery will restore some type of a normal life again.
Rufus Clifford, Shelbyville, Tennessee, USA, October 17, 2007

• I had a cath done about 4 yrs ago. After I was in recovery the nurses could not get a pulse. They had to use the Doppler to get one, prior to the procedure I had a good pulse. The doctor said that I was having artery spasms and it would get better. Went back for my follow-up exam and told the doctor that I was having numbness and pain in my right leg. He said that I probably had a nerve irritation and it would get better. After 4-6 months I saw my family doctor and told him of the numbness and pain, he scheduled me for a test to check the blood pressure in my legs. The right leg was extremely lower than the left. Ended up seeing a vascular surgeon, the femoral artery was blocked at the cath site and had to be bypassed. Now I'm on coumadin, have to a p/t test monthly and a ultra sound twice a year. (By the way the cath showed that my heart was in good shape).
RAB, Kentucky, USA, October 17, 2007

• Susan -- If it helps I have had 4 angiograms/plasties over the last 2 years (and another looks likely). On 2 occasions I had bruising down to my ankle and the other 2 times only small amounts (down to knee). I have been on Plavix, warfarin and aspirin throughout this time. On all occasions I have had a lump the size of a pea which has always gone within 3 weeks. But never had any pain as such........best get it checked out.
Tel, United Kingdom, October 15, 2007

• Susan, Don't want to scare you, but I had a similar problem back in 2003. I started with what appeared to be brusing around the entry wound. 5 days later I was in the hospital with a severe staph infection. Spend 4 days in the hospital recovering and being fed I/V antibiotics. Don't wait around get help ASAP.
Bob Puckett, Snellville, Georgia, USA, October 14, 2007

• I had a cardiac cath done on Oct. 4th 2007. I had manual applied pressure to the site for 20 minutes. Laid still for 6 hours and released. I returned to the doctor 1 wk later as instructed for f/u. There is a small hard spot at the incision and I am extremely bruised with pain that is getting worse, not better. (I expected some bruising, but not this much). Anyway, the doctor was concerned about this and ordered an Ultrasound which will be done on Monday 10/15/07. Has anyone had this? Is it normal? Something I should be worried or concerned about?
Susan Norwood, Port Orange, Florida, USA, October 14, 2007

• I had an angiogram 2 weeks ago yesterday. They were training a nurse to take out the catheter and he didn't put pressure on it for more than 5 minutes. I had to lie prone for 7 hrs. I was having chest pain, so they admitted me overnight. In the middle of the night I suddenly awakened and felt something wasn't right. Both legs & feet were tingling. The nurse went shrieking out into the hallway asking for help. I had developed a huge pseudoaneurysm (now I know what it was - they never said it to me) and they put all their weight on it for several minutes and then put on 10 lbs of sand bags for the rest of the night. I was released the next morning. I made slow progress in my recovery, but had started to drive again. On the 11th day the pain moved to my lower back and abdomen, so the cardiologist office told me to go to the ER. That is where I discovered I had already had the pseudoaneurysm and now they were worried about a slow bleed. After another CAT Scan (they had done a CAT scan & ultrasound after the angiogram when I was having chest pains) they said they couldn't find any bleeding. But the ER doctor said I was going to be in for some serious pain while all the blood (where did the blood come from?!! I was told I had lost a unit after the angiogram and now I've realized I was bleeding for 11 days) reabsorbs in the body. He said scar tissue would form and it would tear, and that the blood is old and coagulated so it will be harder to reabsorb. I have had a hysterectomy, so there was even more space for the blood to pool!! So here I lie, in massive pain and on pain killers around the clock. It hurts to sit up. I couldn't walk on my own for 2 days, now I can walk for a very short distance. I have to lie flat with my leg straight out. My feet and legs tingle (which the ER doc said could happen because of the pressure of the blood on the nerves), I have pains going up my left side, across my abdomen like menstrual cramps, and shooting pains. I am very discouraged and don't know what to do. Does anyone have any advice on why reabsorbption is so painful? Is it best to lie still for a long time. Ice packs seem to help - are they ok? Should I be getting up and walking around? Any knowledge would be helpful, as this is very scary. I am 47 yrs old and was in good health. I have a terrible family history of heart disease, and have had all the tests done, including the 64 slice cat scan prior to the angiogram. They were concerned about what they saw on the cat scan so wanted to do an angiogram and put in a stent if necessary, which they didn't need to do. I never thought I'd have this kind of pain and misery after a test. Help!
Shirley, Georgia, USA, September 26, 2007

• My first heart cath was in 2004 and I had the Angioseal closure device used. I had problems with pain in the leg and groin with numbness for months. Not an enjoyable time of my life. My second heart cath was done about 6 months later, due to a return of chest pain at NYU Hospital. This hospital closed the puncture site with a vice like device, which was painful for about an hour or so while the pressure was being increased to stop my bleeding. The very next day I was up and walking with no pain or other side effects. I would go with the manual pressure choice again and again. It was almost immediate recovery! Amazing People go with the vice!!
J.H., Pennsylvania, USA, September 18, 2007

• I'm reading all your posts with great interest. I had a cardiac cath procedure done last Tuesday (9/11/07) and although the procedure went very well (no artery blockage at all), I was amazed when I felt a sharp pain in my groin after the cath tube was removed. The doctor told me he had used an AngioSeal to close up my femoral artery. I had no complications at the hospital and left about an hour post-procedure. During the following night, I got up to go to the bathroom and upon getting up from the toilet, I suffered severe pain in my incision site. I immediately went back to bed, kept my leg straight and waited for it to subside. Since then, I have had severe bruising in my groin area and a swollen "knot" in my groin at the very top of my right leg. I went back to see the doctor 3 days after the cardiac cath procedure and he indicated that he didn't see any problems, no clots, all vitals looked good. I am very upset however because no one told me that I would be in this much discomfort/pain after the procedure and I don't see any improvement despite 7 days of rest/ice/advil use. I am beginning to believe the culprit is the angioseal that was used since I don't know of anyone who has had these problems after a cardiac cath procedure when the traditional "sandbag" approach to clotting was used. I'm interested if anyone has any advice for what I might do for the discomfort. Walking is painful and driving is almost impossible and I have 3 children who are depending on me. Thanks!
Robin D., New York, USA, September 18, 2007

• Hi Jackie. I also had post catheter bleeding and was left with pain and chronic swelling in my leg. The x-ray tech that stopped the bleed was incompetent and later fired. He also failed to document the incident or alert my doctor so the large hematoma went without care. After almost a year of seeing doctor after doctor, and having test after test, After over a year, I was just (finally) diagnosed with femoral nerve damage. The cause and treatment of the swelling are still a mystery, but I'm finally on the road to diagnosis. I am awaiting testing on another group of nerves and will be seeing a vascular surgeon regarding the swelling. Recovery remains to be seen. The test for nerve damage is not a pleasant one, but I hope this saves you some of the frustration I had to go through getting a diagnosis, at least. Get an appointment with a neurologist asap. Hang in there. There is hope for the pain. Good luck.
Beth, Nevada, USA, September 14, 2007

• Thanks for replying. Does not seem to be growing and one part is less with slight yellowing on the ones on my leg. But yesterday lifted a water bottle and some boxes with metal and couple hours later now am real sore in groin. Hope to god I do't have a hernia. There is no lump or anything just soreness pressing in on it and sitting. Out of your field I know so appreciate the forum and thanks so much
Dennis, Pittsburg, California, USA, September 2, 2007

• Dennis -- if the purple area is growing, you should call your cardiologist -- the one who did the angiogram. He/she can best steer you if this is something that will go away or if it needs attention. (Even on a holiday weekend, there should be someone on call.) In fact, even if it's not growing, you might call, just for piece of mind. A growing purple bruise, or hematoma, can possibly signal internal bleeding from an unsealed puncture in the artery. But bruises are not uncommon after femoral punctures of the type done for angiography.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, September 1, 2007

• It has been six days since my angiogram which heart arteries were clear. but have large bruise at puncture site and then yesterday developed some on upper thigh near site. The one on groin seems gradually more yellow but still purple ellipse about 3 inches. Is this a hematoma or blood clot. a little a pain and legs feel fine. Should I go to ER to check on it.
Dennis, Pittsburg, California, USA, August 31, 2007

• A month ago I and a pulmonary angiogram to see if I had a blood clot in my lungs -I didn't. The doctor tried both the right and the left groin area. He couldn't get in the right, but was able to do so with left. When I woke up I complain of intense right leg pain. I was told to take some Motrin. A few days later I went back because I had a large bruise on my right thigh, intense groin pain and I could barely walk. They did an ultrasound and said everything is fine. I had two large hematoma one on the right side and one on the left side. After about a month the right side stopped hurting. But the left groin continues to hurt and I also have left buttock pain. I am sure it is related to the procedure. I hope it gets better soon. Is there anything that someone has tried that has worked?
C. Smith, Ohio, USA, August 29, 2007

• Hi! One year ago my father had chest pain and was admitted to the emergency in Cairo. An angiography was done with stent insertion in the LAD. He had a mild heart attack during the procedure and was taken to the icu.Two days later, he was plane evacuated to Vienna. There he had another stent inserted in his RCA. Three weeks later he had a major heart attack and was evacuated to frankfurt this time. An angiography was done with puncture of the femoral artery.5 liters of blood had accumulated in his abdomen. He was only diagnosed hours later after he went into severe shock. Luckily a few days later he was stable again. Now my father has angina again and is due for another angiography on Tuesday. Please pray for him.
R.A., Egypt, August 24, 2007

• Me again. Third post. I am one year out from my complicated cardiac cath. Four days post cath my femoral artery perforated and I bled 7 liters into my thigh--complicated by the fact I am on coumadin. Surgical repair of the artery 2 days later, large wound from devitalized tissue, healed after 23 weeks. Continue to have pain in the medial thigh, that radiates down to the top of the leg. I have moments where around the wound/incision feels hot/wet and burns. The thigh looks different than the other and is slightly larger--not in a lymphedema kind of way--just slightly larger. I am just so frustrated! My physicians are so worried about covering their butts that they aren't doing anything at all....and I almost can't take it any more. Any suggestions? What kind of doctor should I see? Am I doomed to having this near constant pain?? There are moments where I almost think that it would have been better if I had lost the leg--it would be better than feeling this way.
Jackie M., Maine, USA, August 15, 2007

• Shelly -- you should look at our Forum Topic on vascular closure devices. Many patients who have had problems after the use of Angio-Seal have posted there. The pain may subside as the Angio-Seal is absorbed. However, your pain may be due to a nerve spasm or trauma that occurred during the procedure, possibly during the compression. You should definitely discuss this with your cardiologist. While complications from an angiogram or a vascular closure device are infrequent, somewhere between 3-6%, as you can see from the many postings here, you are not alone.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, August 15, 2007

• I, too, had an angiogram done on Aug. 7. I ended up with an Angio Seal (right leg) but wasn't told in advance. Everything went well and my heart is fine, thank goodness. What wasn't expected was the Angio Seal. Nothing was said to me until it was over. All I know is that the Novocain had worn off at the puncture site and that when the nurse was finishing up from the dr. it was very painful. When she was done I was handed a pamphlet on the seal, which told me nothing. After about 4 hrs I was released from the hospital and felt fine until I got in the car for the hour ride home. Since then I have had problems. That night it felt as though my artery was in spasm and it was pulling on the Angio Seal. It hurt so much that my husband had to help me walk. I could not support my weight. The next day my right thigh was slightly red and warm. Then it went away. Now I can barely walk - I can feel it pulling all the time and it is very painful. I see my cardio on Aug. 23. My husband thinks I'm blowing things out of proportion. I tried to drive 2 days ago and go to the store and the pain was so bad that I had to go home. Now I have to limit my activities and mostly lay with my leg straight out so the pain can be relieved, somewhat. I'm sorry I ever had this done. I was fine and in no pain before this procedure and I will never have another one done. My 'heart' goes out to everyone that has had so many problems with the Angio Seal. Since the dr's never inform us of what will happen how are we to even know what to research. I was expecting an angiogram done the 'old fashioned way'. Now, like others, my entire life has changed and there seems to be nothing I can do about it.
Shelly L., Oregon, USA, August 13, 2007

• After reading about all of these problems with angiograms I am happy that I walked out of mine. Before the IV was inserted to prepare me for the surgery the nurse said "oh we just have one more paper to sign". It was permission for a cardiac surgeon to be on stand by in case of a need for open heart surgery. The doctor had not mentioned this possibility. Everything felt wrong so I let my instincts make my decision to leave. I have since made an appointment with Mayo Clinic. I am going to only agree to a Cardia scan or PET scan. I understand these are alternatives to an angiogram. Dean Ornish has published books on reversing heart disease with diet, exercise and stress management. I am following his plan now and hopefully will reverse my situation.
V. LeLou, Crown Point, Indiana, USA, August 10, 2007

• I had an angiogram on July 31st (age 62, cardio arteries are all clear). I have the Angio-Seal in place. Yesterday it appeared that I was going backwards in healing. This morning is better so far, but I am going to try to see my cardiologist today. I have hematoma more widespread than 3 days ago but I'm going to assume that my healing is going normally now. However, I have learned some things the hard way and here are some amateur advice tips that I have not read anywhere.

1. Bending the groin, as in sitting then standing should be done very very slowly as healing swollen tissue is not as pliable. Any fast move can rip apart the healing that went before. Does this make sense? I base this on what I know of previous muscular injuries.
2. Do not fill your gut. That groin area is responsible for holding in the mass of your intestines when you are upright. Regrettably, I learned this the hard way over this weekend.
3. Do not stop applying ice. I think I could have avoided some of the hematoma if I iced several times per day, ongoing for a week.
4. Don't assume teamwork on the part of the professionals. You will not be told certain important things because they assume someone else already has. My personal Kaiser physician and my cardiologist are in different buildings. The catheterization was done in a different hospital, very nice, but not even a Kaiser hospital. Plenty of fault lies with me, but I had no idea that an angiogram would lay me. up so long. I went back to my office the next day. I obeyed the 5-lb lifting limit, but heck, my right arm probably weighs 15 lbs!
5. You will not make it to the bathroom. If you wait until the urge is imminent, the weakened muscles and the pain of puckering, plus the inability to walk fast, will cause accidents. Someone should have told me that a simple bed urinal would have avoided setbacks in healing and pride.

My field is physics and I rely on clear statements of fact and actual measurements. I hope the reviewers of what I have written find this helpful. One more item: I'm going to install a chin-up bar over my bed today. The eye-hooks in the ceiling will be unsightly for a while, but getting out of bed is the most painful of all the maneuvers, and perhaps most destructive. I'll be happy to write more as this very personal quest continues, just say the word. Thanks for all the other posts. Great forum!
Bill G., self-employed, California, USA, August 6, 2007

• I had a heart cath in right groin and next day right foot became numb and burning improved some but can't walk long without burning pain in arch of foot Dr says he may have touched nerve any one else?
Gail P., Georgia, USA, August 5, 2007

• I had an angiogram in April. Since then I have virtually been unable to walk. My leg goes numb for no apparent reason. Pain radiates from the closure site. I have been given MRI scans of brain and spine..am now being sent to see a neurologist! It seems obvious to me what the cause is...WHAT IS THE CURE????
BC, United Kingdom, August 5, 2007

• I had an angiogram on June 9th, 2007. After lying still for about 6 hours I went home with a strange feeling in my right groin and leg. The next morning I had some discomfort which I expected. A short while later, while walking slowly, I felt a sharp pain like an electric shock going down my leg from the groin to just below the knee. I called the Dr. who did the cath and was told it was probably the femoral nerve and it will go away. For the past 2 months I have numbness in the inner thigh and down to the middle of my calf and sometimes the pain in my knee is unbearable. My skin feels like it is on fire, like I have a really bad sunburn but the skin looks normal. I am going to see a neurologist this week on the advise of my Cardiologist. I'm hoping he can help me.
Linda, Secaucus, New Jersey, USA, July 31, 2007

• My mother underwent angio last week. She developed bleeding in the puncture site which caused her blood pressure to drop. The nurses raised her legs to bring the BP up. Somehow the blood collected around abdomen and became a life-threatening condition. She was rushed to do an emergency surgery and had an incision. Somehow the hospital does not give us any notes on the surgery. Is this normal? How can we get the records? They gave us the notes from her cardiologist (again, no mention of the surgery).
A.N., San Jose, California, USA, July 27, 2007

• I just found this site & have found it to be enlightening. I, too, am at the end of my rope. I had a cardiac cath & angioplasty in May 2007. I also had bleeding in the groin ( pseudoaneurysm) & it wasn't detected for 2 week. I had 8 attacks of excruciating pain. Even the ER didn't detect it but they gave me Morphine & Dilaudid in my 3 hr visit in an attempt to relieve the pain. When I was discharged to go see my family Dr I couldn't stand. My knees gave out for weeks. I was on crutches& in a wheel chair. I fell 8 times total. An Ultrasound was eventually run. As long as I took Percocet every 4 hours it was tolerable. At 6 hr I got the extreme attacks. I was admitted to same day surgery & had Thrombin injected in the groin to "mop" it up. I also had the pain , cramping, numbness, tingling & skin sensitivity. The pain has now subsided but the rest remains. I have an MRI tomorrow of the knee to see if there is damage from the falls. I was told I have nerve damage from the original procedure.. Hearing that you have had this 2 years is disheartening but I guess its better to have some answers since the cardiologist has blown me off totally & dumped it in my family DR hands. Thanks for sharing on this site. Best of luck to all!! I was never told of any possible side affects prior to the procedure. I wont have another one.
Carole, Pennsylvania, USA, July 22, 2007

• R. Lynn -- certainly you should make the cardiologist aware of it, but most hematomas, if they aren't growing in size, disappear after a while. It's not unlike a bruise -- where some blood has collected under the skin. If the hematoma is growing in size, then that may be an indication that there's a bleeding complication which needs to be addressed.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, July 22, 2007

• After Angioplasty a hematoma formed. Could there be any long term difficulties from this?
r. lynn, philadelphia, pennsylvania, USA, July 15, 2007

• I had a heart cath done on July 10th. One stent in LAD. Immediately after the procedure, I had a four inch diameter hematoma at the incision site in my right groin. The recovery room nurse applied pressure to reduce it. I was then moved to the ICU. The ICU nurse observed severe bleeding from the incision and she began to apply pressure. Two nurses and the Doctor that performed the procedure applied pressure for forty-five minutes to stop the bleeding. The pain I experienced was excruciating as they applied extreme pressure to my right groin. The pain was particularly severe while the doctor applied pressure. It got the feeling that he was upset that I was bleeding. The ICU nurse later commented that I had a "blood-bath". She was kind and she gave me morphine for the pain. I now have severe bruising, swelling and pain in my right groin. It hurts to walk, sit or move my leg in any way. I hope the groin pain goes away soon. Also, I still continue to get chest pains. I am beginning to doubt if this procedure was really worth it.
Jim N., Arizona, USA, July 15, 2007

• Sally in Illinois -- some type of imaging is usually done -- have you discussed having a CT angiogram? The type of diagnostic test performed really depends on what information is being sought. While a CT angiogram is definitely less invasive, it may or may not yield the information your physicians need. Best thing is to discuss any concerns with your cardiologist so you feel confident and understand why a procedure is being done, what is hoped to be gained by it.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, July 15, 2007

• I have HHT. It has been recommended that I have a heart cath done as part of a screening process. Is this a good idea?
Sally, Illinois, USA, July 12, 2007

• Marshall -- a smaller puncture in the femoral artery can definitely reduce the kinds of complications we're reading about here. Another alternative is using the radial artery in the forearm/wrist which also does not require a seal or significant compression. Stay tuned -- we're launching a special section on radial access shortly.
Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, July 12, 2007

• The cardiologists of my group have begun to use a 4 french catheter for diagnostic angiograms, eliminating the need for a seal device.
Marshall Maglothin, CEO, The Cardiovascular Group, PC, northern Virginia, USA, July 9, 2007

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