Cardiac catheterization happens to be a common & essential procedure that’s used for diagnosing & treating heart conditions. Despite the life-saving benefits of cardiac catheterization, there are some risks also that are associated with this procedure. As per a study conducted by the Health Department of Abu Dhabi, UAE (Year 2023) around six to seven percent of patients undergoing cardiac catheterization experience some form of complication, with a smaller percentage tending to develop severe issues including heart attacks, stroke, or significant bleeding. Understanding the major complications of cardiac catheterization & selecting the right specialist is crucial for minimising such risks.
3 Major Complications of Cardiac Catheterization
While cardiac catheterization is generally safe, 3 major complications stand out, which are given as under:
- Bleeding: One of the most common issues is bleeding during cardiac catheterization, especially at the catheter insertion site. This happens because the procedure tends to involve inserting a catheter into the artery that can lead to vessel damage & cause bleeding. The risk of severe bleeding, although low, can augment in patients on blood-thinning medications or those with bleeding disorders. Severe bleeding can arise the need for blood transfusions or even surgical intervention. Monitoring the catheter insertion site closely post-procedure can help in early detection & management.
- Blood Clot Risk: The formation of blood clots is another critical risk. Blood clot risk during heart catheterization tends to arise when a clot forms at the catheter’s tip or the insertion point. This can be specifically turn dangerous if the clot travels to the heart or brain, potentially causing a heart attack or stroke. Clotting tends to be pretty common issue in patients having any existing cardiovascular condition or those with a history of any clotting disorder. Doctors usually use anticoagulants for reducing such risk. Post-procedure, patients are monitored for any signs of clot formation, like swelling or numbness in the limbs. This can indicate a potential blockage.
- Heart Attack: One of the most severe risks of cardiac catheterization is the chance of triggering a heart attack complication during or after the procedure. This happens when the catheter dislodges plaque from the arterial walls, resulting in a blockage in the coronary arteries. The sudden restriction of blood flow to the heart can also lead to myocardial infarction. Though rare, patients with any pre-existing heart disease or having high cholesterol are at a greater risk. So, it is important for healthcare providers to assess a patient’s overall heart health before proceeding with the procedure of cardiac catheterization.
Other Common Complications of Heart Catheterization
Aside from the 3 major that are risks mentioned above, there are several other common complications of heart catheterization that patients should be aware of, which are mentioned underneath:
- Stroke: While rare, the risk of stroke during cardiac catheterization do exists. Strokes can occur if a blood clot or plaque fragment dislodges & travels to the brain, cutting off blood supply. This risk is higher in patients who already have vascular disease or other conditions that predispose them to clotting issues. Doctors take precautionary measures by using anticoagulants and by constantly monitoring the patient’s brain function during & after the procedure. Immediate intervention can minimize the long-term effects of a stroke.
- Infection: Though the insertion site is usually sterilized thoroughly before the procedure, there still remains a risk of infection after catheterization procedure. The infection can develop at the catheter entry point, or in some rare cases, it tends to spread systemically through the bloodstream, resulting in sepsis. Post-procedural care, including cleaning the site & monitoring for signs of infection (like swelling, redness, or fever), is necessary for preventing serious complications. Antibiotics can be administered for reducing infection risk.
- Other Risks: Other cardiac catheterization risks tend to include allergic reactions to the contrast dye, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), & kidney damage, especially in patients with pre-existing renal issues. Such complications may vary based on the patient’s medical history, overall health, & the type of catheterization procedure that is being performed (therapeutic or diagnostic).
Expert Cardiac Care in Abu Dhabi with Dr. Arun Hari
For patients in Abu Dhabi, Doctor Arun Hari is a leading cardiac surgeon specialising in complex cardiac procedures, including cardiac catheterization. Dr. Arun practices at the Department of Cardiology at LLH Hospital in Abu Dhabi (UAE), where he is renowned for his patient-focused approach and successful outcomes in even the most high-risk cases. Doctor Hari’s expertise in minimising the cardiac catheterization risks stems from his years of experience in dealing with a vast array of cardiovascular conditions. With access to advanced medical technologies & a highly skilled team, he ascertains that his patients get the best care possible.
Cardiac Catheterization Abu Dhabi
Dr. Arun Hari with his team at the LLH Hospital in Abu Dhabi provide top-class cardiac catheterization services. Here is why we stand out:
- Advanced Diagnostic Techniques: Dr. Hari uses cutting-edge imaging techniques to ensure precision during the catheterization procedure. Such advanced diagnostics help identify blockages, blood flow issues, & heart abnormalities with greater accuracy, thus reducing the risk of complications.
- Individualised Risk Assessment: Before performing any catheterization, Dr. Arun conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s medical history, current condition, & risk factors. Such an individualised approach helps in tailoring the procedure to minimise complications like bleeding during cardiac catheterization & the blood clot risk during heart catheterization.
- Experienced Surgery Team: Doctor Hari’s team comprises highly skilled cardiologists, nurses, & technicians who are well-versed in managing major complications of cardiac catheterization. Our collective expertise ensures a seamless experience for every patient, from pre-procedure preparation to post-operative care.
- Post-Operative Care & Monitoring: Post-procedure care is crucial to preventing complications like infection after catheterization procedure. Dr. Arun with his team closely monitors patients, providing comprehensive post-op instructions & follow-up appointments to ascertain a smooth recovery.
Cardiac Catheterization in Abu Dhabi
Patients in need of cardiac care in Abu Dhabi can trust Dr. Hari & his team at LLH Hospital for safe & effective cardiac catheterization. The doctor’s exceptional reputation & dedication to his patients’ well-being make him a top choice for individuals facing heart issues in the region. If you or a loved one are at risk of heart complications & need expert guidance on cardiac procedures, do not hesitate at all to reach out to Dr. Arun Hari.
Contacting Doctor Arun Hari
For consultations, bookings, or further information about cardiac catheterization in Abu Dhabi, visit Doctor Arun’s office at LLH Hospital. Rest assured; you are in the hands of one of Abu Dhabi’s finest cardiac surgeons. By understanding the major complications of cardiac catheterization & working with experts like Doctor Arun Hari, patients can mitigate risks & achieve the best possible outcomes for their cardiac health.
