During a coronary angiogram, a catheter is inserted into the body and threaded towards the heart until it reaches the coronary arteries in the heart, according to the Better Health Channel website. Dye is then injected into the catheter and a specialized x-ray is taken to look for heart muscle or valve abnormalities, blocked coronary arteries, ballooning of the heart wall, an irregular heartbeat, or a hole in the heart. The website, DiabeteSuffolk.com states that while the risks are minimal, approximately one in every 500 people has procedure-related complications.
Allergic Reaction
A rare complication associated with a coronary angiogram is an allergic reaction to the dye used during the procedure, according to the Better Health Channel website. The dye consists of an iodine contrasting solution that is used to make the blood vessels in the heart visible. Most people report feeling a warm flushed sensation when the dye is initially injected, according to the website, Patient UK. This sensation usually only last a few seconds, but if the sensation does not leave, worsens or is accompanied by a loss of breath or itchiness, then it may signal an allergic reaction. During an allergic reaction, a person may experience hives, itchy skin, difficulty breathing, swelling and/or low blood pressure. In severe cases, an allergic reaction may result in sudden shock, kidney damage or death.
Excessive Bleeding or Blood Clots
People who have a coronary angiogram are at risk for excessive bleeding and blood clots. Following the procedure, blood can accumulate in the sac that surrounds the heart, causing an irregular heartbeat, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Excessive bleeding can also occur when the catheter scrapes or pokes a hole in a blood vessel as it is threaded up towards the heart. Some people report bleeding or a bruise around the incision site that may be sore for a few days after the procedure, according to the website, Patient UK. A serious complication can occur when blood clots form in the catheters, block the surrounding blood vessels and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs or heart. If the blood clots reach the heart, they can trigger a stroke or heart attack.
Cardiac Tamponade
A life-threatening complication of a coronary angiogram is a condition called cardiac tamponade. Cardiac tamponade occurs when fluid accumulates between the heart muscle and pericardium, the sac that surrounds the heart, according to MedlinePlus. When the heart muscle or surrounding structures are accidentally injured during the coronary angiogram, blood may accumulate in the pericardium and reduce the heart's ability to pump effectively. People who have cardiac tamponade may experience anxiety, intense radiating chest pain, pale skin, difficulty breathing, swelling, palpitations and/or lightheadedness. Treatment consists of emergency surgery to drain the fluid around the heart.
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