Coronary angiography is a specialized type of X-ray test that allows clinicians to view the arteries supplying blood to the heart, or the coronary arteries. Normally these arteries do not appear on X-ray, but by injecting a special dye into the coronary arteries, they become visible. Doctor's use this procedure to examine the integrity of the coronary arteries and to pinpoint the exact location and degree of any narrowing or damage to the vessels, states Patient UK. Once the degree and location of narrowing or damage has been established, physicians can select the proper treatment for the patient. Though coronary angiography is relatively safe, there are some complications and risks that should be taken into consideration before the procedure is performed.
Catheter Site Irritation
In order to inject the dye into the coronary arteries, a catheter, which is a thin hollow tube, is used. The catheter is thrust through the skin of the patient, into a blood vessel, usually in the arm or leg, and then pushed through the vessel until it reaches the coronary arteries. The site where the catheter initially pierces the skin can be the site of complications, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. The site can exhibit profuse bleeding, become infected or very painful. Careful and proper placement of the catheter usually prevents these complications. Unsanitary conditions or having an untrained clinician perform the procedure increases the chances of the development of these complications.
Heart Damage
Coronary angiography can lead to heart attacks, an irregular heartbeat and tears in the heart, reports MayoClinic.com. As the catheter moves toward the coronary arteries, it must pass through the heart. In rare cases, the catheter or dye can cause the heart to stop or beat irregularly. Prompt treatment can usually reverse these complications before the patient expires. Also, the catheter can hit the heart muscle and cause a tear or damage to the tissue. This can cause minor bleeding and a decrease in heart function. Careful manipulation of the catheter minimizes the risk of this complication.
Damage to the Coronary Artery
Rarely, the catheter used in coronary angiography can damage the coronary artery, according to Patient UK. If the catheter is not controlled properly, it can scrape against the walls of the artery and cause significant tearing. This usually occurs in patients who already have some damage to the artery. The tear can cause significant bleeding and interrupt blood supply to the heart. If the tear is large, prompt surgical repair may be necessary.
Allergic Reaction
Some patients will manifest an allergic reaction to the dye or other medications used during the coronary angiography, reports MayoClinic.com. Any patient who develops a widespread rash, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling or low blood pressure may be experiencing an allergic reaction. In these cases, the procedure should be stopped and treatment for the allergic reaction should be administered.
