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Complications from Femoral (Leg) Catheterization, Angiogram or Angioplasty(2007 archive)
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Archived Postings from 2007 on This Page (158): • 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! • 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. • 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. • 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.. • 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? • 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. • 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) • 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. • 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! • 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! • 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. • 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? • 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!!! • 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. • 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. • 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? • Greg -- could be a reaction to the contrast dye
used during caths. • Broke out in rash or hives all over my body after
the procedure. Anyone know about this. Thanks. Greg • 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. • 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? • 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? • 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... • 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. • 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. • 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). • 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. • 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. • 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? • 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! • 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!! • 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! • 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. • 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 -- 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. • 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. • 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? • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.
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! • 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? • 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???? • 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. • 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). • 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. • 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. • After Angioplasty a hematoma formed. Could there
be any long term difficulties from this? • 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. • 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. • 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? • 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. • The cardiologists of my group have begun to use
a 4 french catheter for diagnostic angiograms, eliminating the need for
a seal device. • Hi-just to add a note. I had a heart cath 2 years
ago and when they were finishing up I had a sudden very sharp pain which
caused me to have a jump movement. This was not voluntary and sudden.
At that point, I was told to keep still they were putting in a seal and
I
must remain still. I was not prepared for this very sudden, sharp pain
at the point of insertion. Apparently this caused the device to be unsuccessful
with resultant large (6x3) hematoma in that area. Patients need to be
aware of this increase in pain. Thanks- • Hello, I am a 36 year old female who was diagnosed
with FMD (Fibromuscular Dysplasia) a condition that deforms your arteries.
In my case the MRI/MRA showed that it affected the main artery to my kidney.
It was suggested that I have an angiogram with the possibility of angioplasty
to try to straighten out the artery for better blood flow. I went in last
Wednesday 6/20 and was told that once they went in they discovered that
I was perfectly fine. The doctor said that he checked both sides and my
arteries looked good, so they did not do an angioplasty or stent. I was
released the next day. Since then I have had the most unusual leg pain.
. . it feels like my leg is stressed, it's hard to walk and sometimes there
is a slight burning sensation. After on 5 minutes of standing/walking it
feels as though I have run a marathon. I called the nurse and she said
she doubts it has anything to do with the surgery and I should take ibuprofen.
Is this kind of pain common? I am unsure of what to do because I feel that
there may be something more to this. Any comments are appreciated. Thanks. • Deborah -- thanks for the update and the results!
Have others on this Forum had any experiences with acupuncture?? • I wrote in February about the extreme pain and
swelling I had after a heart cath in June of 2006. I had been seeing the
cardiologists and 2 other doctors I trust. None could explain why I had
pain or what would help alleviate it. I then went to an acupuncturist.
I have been 3 times and she also used an electric frequency machine and
taps into the femoral nerve at the groin and thigh area. I am so happy
to report this has worked and I am almost symptom free. She advised me
that the nerve has to be moved aside in order for the cath to enter the
artery and if the Dr isn't careful enough, he can damage the nerve and
it may or may not ever be the same. I'm so glad to be almost pain free
I had to share. Good Luck to all of you! • Lisa -- Thanks for the compliment. A "seal" still
needs time to set and it may or may not eliminate to situation you describe.
Ceratinly, if you haven't already, discuss this with the cardiologist who
is performing the angiogram in advance, so that the lab can be prepared
for this eventuality. Another way of doing the angiogram that eliminates
the groin entry point is what is known as the "trans-radial" approach
-- which use the radial artery in the wrist for the angiogram. Ambulation
(walking) is almost immediate, the complication rate is somewhat lower
-- however, this technique is used far more in Europe than in the U.S.
-- some patients are not candidates for this approach, and the cardiologist
must be have special training to do it -- Angioplasty.Org is going to be
discussing this area more in the near future. • Thank you for the helpful site. My husband is
scheduled for an angiogram next week. He had one 2 years ago and had significant
complications from it: he became quite agitated upon "waking up" fully
and thrashed around quite a lot, causing a large hematoma which seemed
to "drain" (for lack of a proper term) down his entire leg to his foot
over the following few weeks. It was a difficult experience. I'm wondering
if we should request a "seal" or an additional amount and length of sedation
to prevent a recurrence. Thank you. • Thanks for responding. I have seen my cardiologist
and she claims that the swelling and pain does not have anything to do
with heart cath. I had a pelvic CT done to rule out hematoma and it was
negative. I know they did not use any plug device, per the doctor he does
not approve of them. He dose it the old way with lots of pressure. I did
not find any other comments from people that was having swelling on both
legs. All i am seeing that is related to me is the pain down the leg. I
saw a neurologist and he don't think i have nerve damage. So I don't know
were to turn now. If anyone has this same problem, please help. • I had posted previously (February 21, 2007). Had
major bleed post cath August last year. Bled 7 liters into my thigh--had
large open wound as a result that took 23 weeks to heal. I now have residual
pain that goes across the top of my thigh and some residual numbness around
the wound/scar. The numbness I can live with but the pain--I had hoped
by now it would go away. It has lessened but not resolved. Was on Neurontin
that helped minimally. I am just so frustrated. • Hi, Julie D. I'm sorry about the pain you have
when sitting. I have also experienced this at times. I find that wearing
loose-fitting clothes and changing positions helps some. I also get relief
from the thorn-in-my-side pain in my groin by stretching my arms above
my head or on a door frame as far as I can reach. And, strangely, getting
down on all fours, in a dog position with my stomach hanging down, seems
to relieve the pain also. None of this makes any sense to me; I only know
that it helps. I hope you get some relief soon. • Hi Rita, Thank you for your response. I'm still
having pain, some days more than others. It is SO hard to sit! I went to
my granddaughter's school play last night and it was all I could do to
sit there. When I had the nuclear stress test my heart went into some kind
of fibrillation and I passed out, which showed the left side BBB. I have
had heart palpitations, every 3rd beat, for 2-1/2 years now and I've been
on Atenolol and HCTZ. (This started a month before my husband died of cancer
-- stress maybe?) The next thing they want to do is have me wear a Holter
Monitor for a day or so to see what the next step should be. Again, thank
you! • Sonia -- have you seen the interventional cardiologist
who did the cath? As you can see from the hundreds of postings to this
topic, your symptoms are shared by others. Question: did you receive a
vascular closure device such as Angioseal, etc.? Some of these contain
bovine collagen which some people react to (see our related topic on the
right-hand sidebar). • I am a 36 year old female that had a heart cath
done Feb. 1, 2007 and ever since then i have had pain down right leg and
severe swelling in both legs, but more on the right leg. Of course all
the doctors say it has nothing to do with the cath. I am so tired of these
doctors not taking responsibility for there actions. • Bev -- glad we've been able to help a bit and
very glad you pursued a diagnosis that made sense. Based on your case,
we've located the following article which may be interest to you. Published
in 2004 in the Journal of Anesthesia, it's titled: "A
case of complex regional pain syndrome type II after transradial coronary
intervention". Sounds like your situation may be a relatively
low-frequency complication of transradial access which, as we've written,
has a much lower complication rate than femoral (groin) access. You may
have had pre-existing carpal tunnel syndrome, or at least the beginnings
of it, which were exacerbated by the compression of the artery, necessary
to stop the bleeding (hemostasis). Accordingly to the abstract, treatment,
which seems similar to what you're getting, resolved the problem significantly.
Thanks again for updating the Forum and let us know how you fare in the
future. • Hi. Thanks for your response. I have felt over
the last 2 weeks that this site was the only place I could get acknowledgement
and sympathy for my plight. After seeing 5 doctors, one of them being the
Cardiologist who carried out my procedure (and I might add the least helpful
- with his comment that women seem to suffer more with after pain and that
paracetomol was all I should take).I have finally got what appears to be
a sensible diagnosis. I have been told that I have Carpal Tunnel syndrome
and that it was probably there before the cath treatment. I can honestly
say that I have never felt any pain etc before, so I find it a bit of a
coincidence that this developed immediately after the angiogram! Finally,
I am getting relief from Co-codamol 30/500 & Amitriptyline 25 to 50 mg
per day plus wearing a wrist splint. I may need steroid injections if it
doesn't settle down and worse case an operation on my wrist. I have since
been told that trauma to the wrist area can be attributed to sudden onset
of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. • IMPORTANT: I'd like to echo the forum editor's
advice to promptly report problems to your cardiologist. When I suffered
internal bleeding into the abdomen after a heart cath, it was a "slow leak" that
persisted for about 24 hours (the faster leaks can kill in minutes). They
put me in the hospital, but in the ER I was allowed to get up to go to
the bathroom, etc. When admitted, I found that the nurses on the heart
floor would absolutely NOT allow me out of bed for any reason. They were
astonished that during my hours in ER I was allowed up. They checked with
a floor supervisor who said ABSOLUTELY NOT to my leaving the bed at all
until the bleeding stopped. (They were checking hemoglobin every couple
hours.) They explained that the reason I was on the heart floor was that
if this forming clot dislodged (or failed to re-form), there is a special
device called a Fem Stop which can stop femoral artery bleeding, but must
be used correctly & heart floor personnel are trained to do so. It so happened
that the leak stayed slow & eventually sealed off naturally...but the fact
that the ER allowed me up under such dangerous circumstances--and they
knew from blood work that I was still bleeding slowly & CT had shown enormous
hematoma--tells me that we need to deal with cardiology professionals for
cardiology issues. (I must add, however, that my internist had a fabulous
save for later complications.) All is well now, & I thank those who provide
this forum, as well as the forum editor & all the others who contribute.
Sometimes answers come, but raising important questions can be just as
life-saving. • Julie D. I have posted on this forum several
times. I am a 65-year-old female in good health. Like you, I have left
bundle branch block and had a false stress test nearly 2 years ago. I had
an angiogram that was clear, but about 3 days later I experienced severe
pain in my groin. A CAT scan and ultrasound revealed nothing. My cardiologist
was at a loss to explain my pain and thought it was an irritation in the
area of the nerve that would go away. The pain did not go away and was
worse when I moved a lot, exercised, or lifted anything heavy. After months
of pain and numerous OTC pain pills, my family doctor put me on Elavil
(generic is Amitriptylin, 10 mg) which has helped me considerably. He thinks
I have neuropathy or scar tissue damage to the nerve. I think that the
initial needle puncture caused the problem; sometimes I feel pain in the
puncture site as well as itching and pins and needles sensations in the
groin area. The pain is under control with the drug which I may have to
continue taking in the future. As for the left bundle branch block, I have
no symptoms but may need a pacemaker down the road. ( My mother has it,
too, and is 88 years old.) My doctor says that left bundle branch block
is common, and he does not seem to be concerned about it. ( You can research
it on the Web.) I am hoping your pain goes away soon and you do not experience
any long-lasting complications. Good luck! • I am female, 51 years old. I've had a lot of shortness
of breath and a little chest pain for about 3 months. I had a nuclear stress
test 3 weeks ago which showed significant left side bundle branch block.
I had an angiogram a few days later. It showed no blockages or narrowings.
My main question is about pain I have been having in my groin where the
catheter was placed. It was fine for a while after the angiogram but now
it has started hurting quite a bit. What makes it hurt most is when I am
sitting up in a chair... like at my computer. Is this normaL?? Also, anyone
have any experience with left side bundle branch block and a clear angiogram??
Thank you for your help. • Phan, very odd story. Sounds like the problems
from your cath resolved themselves, but then returned? Have you consulted
a neurologist? The status of nerve damage from a cath doesn't seem clear
-- a neurologist might be able to add some knowledge here. • bout a month ago I had a cath and developed a
numb spot in my right thigh above the knee. I mentioned it to the doctor
and he said it would probably go away. It got better after about a week
and continued to get better until it was not noticeable until I had surgery
to remove a lump behind my ear and had to stay in bed for a day. Now I
have some damage to the nerves in my ear and the numbness in my leg has
returned. Is this life threatening? Also, should the nerve damage a person
experiences with cardiac cath discourage a person from exercising that
leg as hard as they can stand? • Bev -- your diagnostic cath was done via the wrist,
what is called the radial approach. While this approach has been shown
to have at least 50% less complications than access via the femoral (groin)
artery, there are still some -- about 1-2%. Sometimes the nerve gets jostled
a bit, and this can cause the type of pain you describe. It often resolves
itself in time, but any complication should be reported to the interventional
cardiologist who did the procedure. Was the doctor you are seeing the same
cardiologist? He/she would be the most familiar with this type of situation
and could also look to see that nothing else is going on. Let us know how
things turn out. • Hi my name is Bev and I am a 52yr old female.
I had a diagnostic angiogram 6 days ago. To my relief they found that all
was well with my heart. My problem is that I am experiencing considerable
pain, burning sensations and tingling in my wrist (site of catheter entry)
and up my arm. I am unable to do anything with my right hand without experiencing
pain. My doctor has prescribed rest and pain killers but they don't really
help. Is this a normal side effect of the procedure and if so any idea
when it might ease. Any advice would be great. • This is further to a response that was sent in
October 2006. I spoke of my mother passing away after an angiography/angioplasty
procedure. Since that time our family has found out that our Mother had
an allergic reaction to the contrast dye that caused her heart to stop.
She had to be revived and a temporary pacemaker was inserted to help her.
The autopsy came back saying that there was a possibility that the pacemaker
wire punctured her heart causing her to bleed. A pericardiocentisis was
done to remove the blood from around her heart when they realized she had
cardiac tamponade but the drainage tube became dislodged somehow after
that procedure and she died within hours.... I just wanted to let people
know that there are all sorts of risks to having this procedure done, even
though the risks are low, you have to be prepared to deal with anything. • Helena -- did the nerve pain in your leg start
right after the angioplasty three years ago? Although these problems may
all be unrelated, if the original nerve pain followed immediately after
the cath procedure, and you had no pain before, there may be a relationship.Statins
can certainly cause muscle pain, and this pain can remain for several months
after stopping statins. • I have had two angioplasties with the second one
resulting in a stent in my right coronary artery. I too suffered a bad
hematoma. I did not have time to sit around, and had to fly to Alaska two
days later when my mother passed away. This was three years ago. I have
developed so much nerve pain in my right leg I had to apply for disability
at work. This pain has been blamed on statin drugs and also disc degeneration
in my spine sending pain down my leg. I recently had a MRI on my knee for
a torn meniscus and the MRI revealed a tumor or neuroma just above and
behind my knee. What's this all about? I have been suffering with leg pain
for a long, long time - just trying to function the best way I can. Anyone
Help! • In reference to my last post on this forum, I
now know the reason of my leg weakness. Apparently the surgeon used an
AngioSeal which caused a dissection / flap in my left artery at the groin
which somehow affected the blood flow on exertion. The Vascular surgeon
is suggesting that I wait for three months to see how it goes while I exercise
and push it hard. if it improves I will avoid a rather complex surgical
procedure to fix this. Other option is to balloon the area and he is not
sure if this will be successful. he said though that it may not come back
to normal w/o a procedure. :-( I am hoping that Stewart V., West Virginia
is reading this as it looks that he had something very similar. I am annoyed
on the fact that these devices seem to have tooooo many problems like 4%
and they still allow them. I am really planning to join any campaigns or
movements against their use. My surgeon said that he stopped using these
Angioseals as there are devices coming now that are less intrusive and
are much safer. • To all posters who write in regarding complications
from a catheterization. Even if we could, it's not really possible to diagnose
individual situations like these via the internet. What we can suggest
is the following: by all means, contact the cardiologist who did your cath
and let him/her know in detail what you are experiencing. Not only might
this get you some advice, or an appointment, but it will let the cardiologist
know of the complications. It is the opinion of many in this field that
the number of "minor" complications from diagnostic angiography
is under-reported. It's been cited at around 3-4% -- many think it may
be more like 6%. Not minor if it's you. A hematoma (bleeding underneath
the skin characterized by a black-and-blue area) is not uncommon and should
resolve itself -- but may be serious in certain cases. Again, see your
cardiologist. And we say your cardiologist rather than your family doctor,
because it's most likely related to the cath, and your cardiologist will
have more experience in dealing with the situation. Also, there has been
an "insult" to your body, and sometimes it just needs time to
heal and for things to calm down. But it can't hurt to inform the cardiologist
or go in to have him see you. Finally, if your cardiologist can't explain
the problem, other specialists who may be able to help at least diagnose,
if not treat, the situation, would be a vascular surgeon or a neurologist.
That is what other posters have reported. Let the Forum know how things
turn out. • After having a stent placement, they were removing
the line from my femoral artery when I crashed, my heart rate and blood
pressure took a nose dive and I passed out. The nurses had a name for this
and I cannot remember what it was. Does anyone know what this called and
what caused it? • In December of 2006, my husband had an arteriogram
done to check for blockage. Everything there turned out o.k. Ever since
the arteriogram, the area in the groin has been knotted up and discolored.
The last few days a blister looking place has come up on the knotted area
in the groin. He has had a ct scan and a sonogram. We have also been back
to the doctor who performed the arteriogram. He says he has a deep hematoma.
He had the procedure four months ago. I don't think a hematoma would look
so angry and blistery four months later. We can't seem to get an answer
as to what is going on. Does anyone know what this could be or has had
a similar problem? • Hi, I had a cath done last week in the left groin
area. I was in pain afterwards, and they did an ultrasound to rule out
blood clot . They did not find one. I have been home a week, and need a
cane to walk around, I cant move that leg well. It feels like they went
through a muscle or ligament. The pain goes into the hip. I have had two
caths in the past without problem. Is there any danger when a muscle or
ligament is punctured? • I had an angiogram done 4 days ago, entering the
femoral artery in my right leg.. No significant blockage was found but
I have problems with severe muscle spasms in my right toes every night,
preventing sleep for hours. Although it is a little better today, the angiogram
has also caused me to drag my right leg slightly when I walk. I am wondering
if these are normal complications. I had an acoustic neuroma 16 years ago
and my right side is already slightly affected and has caused me some imbalance
throughout the years. • i had a cath done my groin is on fire and my leg
is killing me at times but my wife and sister tell me to just let it go
and stop thinking about it they don't have to live with the pain. please
reply back to me in need of help and no place to turn to. • I am a male 47, had an angiogram done last week.
I am having exactly the same symptoms as those described by Stewart V.,
West Virginia, USA, November 1, 2006. Weakness and pain in my left leg
where the catheter was inserted after exertion. I cannot run or walk briskly
without feeling pain and weakness in my leg. I am concerned that Stewart
had his angiogram done Jan 2006 and his leg problem stayed for nearly 11months.
I am checking wit my GP tomorrow to see what next step I can take. please
share your similar experiences if any. • I wish to have more details about hematoma in
the right thigh and groin area, after angioplasty. I also experience pain
in the insertion area and some muscles in the right thigh. can anybody
give some advice. • I had a heart cath one week ago with no blockage
found. They first tried cath in the right groin, had trouble getting in
and then went successfully into the left groin. I had to return to work
after about four days (which was approved by doctor). But I am feeling
poorly - chronic stomach pain and very bad low back pain, but no leg pain
- left groin area where they went in is still tender but looks okay visually.
Right groin area where they couldn't get in, however, is badly discolored
and also, oddly, a huge black and blue on the right side of my body nowhere
near the puncture site. It is the distended abdomen and the pain there
and in the lower back that is getting to me, though. Is this normal? Will
it get better? It feels better when I first get out of bed in the morning,
but returns quickly upon walking and, even worse, sitting at my desk at
work for long days. I crawl into bed when I get home which is not like
me at all. Please help. • Just wanted to update & say, "There is hope!" After
carefully adhering to the bed rest thing--very diligent to be non-diligent & rest-- & increasing
activity very, very gradually once cleared to do so...FINALLY, I am turning
the corner with faster & faster progress. I'm able to sit now for an hour
or more without my leg going numb or weird. I can bend & washed my own
right foot the other day (1st time in wks)! (Yes, my husband helped me
before--lol.) Silly to be so excited, but after that pain, I am so glad.
Yesterday I was up all day, and just felt tired and a little sore. I only
need hydrocodone 1x/day (end of day), though this AM, after doing so much
yesterday, I needed one this AM. For the most part, I'm nearly well. Please
take heart, commit it to the Lord (seriously), and REST. These nerves need
to have time to heal undisturbed. Thanks for this forum & for "listening." :)
My heart goes out to those who have suffered so much more, and longer.
My prayers are truly, and literally, with you. • D.M.and Jewel -- as we have noted elsewhere, the
symptoms you both describe are similar to many of those posted on this
topic and may be nerve-related. You both might want to consult a neurologist
for some testing (D.M. -- before the chiropractor, in case there is some
injury that is still in need of restful healing). • 6 months ago I began having angina and had a cardiac
cath. The right groin area hurts and burns all the time and I get nauseated
when it is the worst. First it was a hematoma, then a probable pseudoaneurysm,
which the ultrasound ruled out. Now it is that the artery was nicked during
the procedure. Pain meds are all I have been offered. Like is tough when
you have no idea when or if your pain will go away. What next? • Just a continuation to my
earlier post. After nearly 4 weeks (25 days) since the stent placement,
there is still no lessening of the numbness to the right leg, right side
(mid-chest to right leg) and right fingertips/palm. Cardiologist does
not seem concerned. Family doctor thinks this has gone on too long and
ordered CT scans from head through pelvic area (nothing extraordinary
found). I have mobility but also tingling in the leg / foot and a pronounced
tightness in a band around the upper leg through the groin area. I am
not upset at this continued annoyance, but I am less than pleased with
my cardiologist's lack of concern. I return for the placement of two
additional stents on March 16. I will seek the counsel of a Chiropractor
within a few weeks of the catheterization if this numbness does not improve. • Mary -- you're right, although a lump by itself
is not necessarily abnormal. But a fever or any sign of a spreading hematoma
(bruise) or bleeding OR pain certainly should be reported. Unfortunately
Jody's friend did report her problem and it hasn't been resolved. We've
heard from others that a neurologic test might be useful in diagnosing
(or ruling-out) possible nerve trauma or damage. • Jody,
my understanding is that any fever, and especially any lump near the puncture
site, warrants an IMMEDIATE call to the dr! The lump could even be bleeding & may
be an emergency situation. Please correct me if I'm wrong, forum editor.
Thanks. • I am a 46 year old female who just had a cardiac
ablation for AV node re-entry. I am very bruised and my veins feel odd,
can anyone tell me how long this bruising lasts and is it safe to work
out strenuously after this procedure for I lift weights. The doctors told
me it was one catheter only to find out on the way to the ER they were
inserting 6? Thank you. • After 10 days of dr-ordered complete bedrest and
nearly a week of partial bedrest, I'm glad to say the pain is improving
after the initial hematoma. Went out today for about half an hour, and
pain is so little, even on a milder painkiller. However, I still get stabbing
pains in the lower abdomen and pains both at the right-side waist level
and lower by the appendix.(I have very little leg trouble & never had pain
at insertion site.) There is also pain whenever using the bathroom in any
way. My CBC's are normal so the appendix is not suspect. What could cause
these higher pains--is there a nerve that passes by both the appendix and
a few inches above it that the hematoma could have irritated? (It was originally
from puncture site to waist upwardly, and to midsection laterally.) What
is mystifying everyone is, what made it get so awful from day 4 on? I am
just now beginning to get back to the mild pain level I had on day 3. No
images were taken to explain it, & my primary phys's guess was shifting
hematoma...but why would a shift be so much worse than the initial large
hematoma? Any ideas? Also, neither cardiologist nor primary care dr have
said to return for any more checks or tests. Should there be any? Thanks,
Mary • I to have had a heart Catheterization and I to
have had a small painful lump appear near my groin. I have been in a lot
of pain in my stomach and kidneys and running a low grade fever is this
normal or is this something to worry about. • My friend had a heart
catheterization Dec 8, 2006, with extreme pain ever since. This is a professional
person that normally works 12 hours per day. She now cannot drive a car,
or live a normal life. She is 48 years old and has never been ill. The
cardiologist that performed the procedure is the head of cardiology of
a big city hospital 2 hours from where we reside. He told her that he didn't
do anything to her and go home & take a pain pill & live with it! She has
seen many different types of doctors, had many tests including MRI & ultrasound
with no conclusion. My question: is there any specific type of physician
that will help with this serious problem, and any way of finding a solution
?? • D.M. -- a quick reaction is that numbness on the
right side after an angioplasty/stent procedure would seem more likely
a result of the femoral puncture (if the catheters were inserted through
the right groin area). Reactions to Plavix tend to be more of a rash or
bleeding. This may be due to a nerve trauma and should pass, but definitely
report this to the cardiologist who did the procedure. • After placement of one
drug-eluting stent, I am experiencing numbness on my right side (only)
from mid-chest down to my toes. The right foot is very tingly. The fingertips
on my right hand are slightly tingly. If the numbness is related to the
Plavix, is this a side effect that may go away in time or is it likely
to persist as long as I am on the Plavix? I am on the following drugs:
Plavix (75 mg), aspirin (325 mg), Lisinopril (5 mg), Isosorbide ( mg),
Lipitor ( mg). • Gary, in my experience this may be an "eye migraine".
I used to get them often and it is due to stress. The best thing to do
is relax, take a tylenol, close your eyes and rest for about 10 minutes.
If it doesn't go away, it may be something else such as a detached retina
which will need immediate attention. Mine used to come and go. I think
blood pressure has something to do with it too, so get it checked as well.
You wrote on 3-4 so hopefully all is back to normal now. If not see the
dr. asap.. • I just had a heart cath yesterday. The good news
is that the doctor found my arteries clear. An hour-and-a-half after the
procedure I was on my way home, I noticed a great sensitivity to the sunlight
and later I developed what I would describe as "a moving ink squiggle" in
my left eye. When I close my eyelid and then open it "the squiggle" is
dead-center in my vision path and then gradually it moves up and to my
left as I move my eye. "The squiggle" is not so much an "ink spot" as it
is a liquid ribbon that is constantly changing shape. Has this happened
to any one else? Is there a cure? • To Editor--Unfortunately,
my cardiologist was not interested in following up on the dramatic escalation
in pain on Monday, though he had been the Fri before (procedure was Thurs.).
His nurse just said indifferently to keep the previously scheduled follow
up for Tuesday. I reiterated that I was in excruciating. pain, so she replied
coolly to just go to ER if I wanted to be seen sooner. When I asked if
she could at least run it by the dr, she said she just had. He still said
to hold off till Tues. I wasn't sure I needed ER but sure thought such
a change should be evaluated. So I asked her if he could at least call
the ER to get me thru quickly, as he had Fri, since I could not sit long--and
she said, "You can just call the rescue squad, they get people in the back
quickly." In other words, cardiologist & nurse weren't going to deal with
it, period. After I hung up & thought about that, I called back & said
I wanted to change cardiologists (against their policy within their practice!).
Then they called back & said original cardiologist would now see me today.
I said no thanks, I wanted Dr.(other). After much stalling, they said to
call my primary care phys since this isn't a cardiology problem. (! Odd,
cardiologist was admitting phys. & followed it all weekend.) No, I did
not have any closure device, just a very painful hand applying pressure
post-procedure. P.S. The same indifferent nurse called this morning & asked
if I were okay & said she had laid "awake all night worrying" about me.
The new cardiologist I requested had been on call for original cardiologist
all weekend, & I had really liked his thoroughness & how he listened, so
had planned to finish this procedure thru then switch cardio's anyway.
Was informed office mgr & both cardio's had to approve it! After my husband
argued for it, mgr granted permission. • Mary -- many posters here have experienced pain
which they report may be related to trauma to a nerve near the femoral
artery where the puncture was made. This sometimes settles down, sometimes
not. It is an infrequent, but known complication of femoral access. Also,
some people may experience muscle or nerve pain just from lying flat on
the cath lab table or in a hospital bed for an extended period. By all
means continue to report any adverse effects to the interventional cardiologist
who did the catheterization (it's important that the cardiologist, not
just your general physician, know about this). You may wish to consult
a neurologist if this continues and no cause can be found. Also check out
the related topic about vascular
closure devices. Was one used on you? • I had a heart cath last Thursday 2/22/07. After
initial improvement that day, I experience worse pain every time I got
up to go to the bathroom Saw dr. who said he couldn't find a reason but
sent for CT just in case--which revealed a massive hematoma (thin lay of
blood up to waist, across to middle, with a thicker hematoma just above
insertion site). After almost 3 days in the hospital, my pain was very
controlled & I was gingerly mobile--but feeling pretty good. A new, mild
pain started shortly b4 I was discharged, but since my hemoglobin were
good they sent me home. That nite it became EXCRUCIATING! Called dr next
day who said just to keep my appt for the following day! At this pt. I
was in tears with the agony in my side, several points of pain. Went to
primary dr & he checked H&H, good again, sent home with pain meds. When
I walk & sit I do better, lying down is mostly good but AGONIZING getting
up then & walking. Dr says since CT scan last wk shows ok appendix it can't
be that, but something is terribly wrong. I was nearly pain-free Sunday,
but now it is by far the worst it EVER was. Help! What could be wrong?
Drs say if bloodwork is okay, I'm not bleeding so any pain level is expected.
This is not pain, it is agony, tho' with episodes of relief. IDEAS??? • Hi again I just had the CT scan done on my right
wrist following a angiogram and then an ultrasound. The CT scan was done
to try see if there was an AV fistula which the ultrasound suggested was
there. The ultrasound was done to try find out why I got a big painful
lump at the site of the angiogram done 12 days before. the angio was 2
months ago now. (see my past
posts) -- Right wrist CT angiogram: This study was performed
realising that it has limited application for AV fistula which is a possibility
more appropriately studied by conventional angiography where the contrast
can be sequentially followed from the artery into vein. There is limited
filling of vessels in the radial artery position at wrist with some increased
attenuation soft tissue in the subcutaneous fat anteriorly at level of
the distal radius bone. There is no contrast flow in this for pseudoaneurysm
There are no adjacent significantly dilated veins. The ulnar artery appears
normally patent. -- Impression: Limited radial arterial filling
suggests stenosis/occlusion. As suggested before, an angiogram would be
more suitable if an AV fistula is a concern. ~~ I have an appointment with
a vascular surgeon on the 7th of next month to see what all this might
mean.... I really do not want another angiogram as I found mine quite traumatic,
don't they usually sedate you first? and any thoughts on the above test
result would be appreciated. Thanks. • Had cardiac cath in August--normal! Four days
later, I stood up at work and felt severe pain at the cath site. I had
a large hematoma. Since I am on anticoagulants, it was quite a challenge.
Two days later they took me to surgery and repaired the pseudoaneurysm....but
not before I bled 7 liters into my thigh. Had very large wound as a result
of devitalized tissue from the subcutaneous blood. I wonder had my anticoagulation
had been reversed sooner if my wound would have been smaller? • I had congestive heart failure on May 8, 2006
due to a virus. They insisted I have a cardiac cath even though I had a
bad feeling about it. They found nothing but I was left with extreme pain
in my right groin. For 2 weeks I went was insistent the pain was not going
away. I finally went in and insisted they do a doppler which showed...
a blood clot! I went back into the hospital and on warfarin (blood thinner)
for 6 months. Since June I have been dealing with pain from my groin to
my thigh and sometimes down to my foot. From my thigh to my knee becomes
swollen and I can barely bend my knee. They are telling me there is nothing
wrong yet I know different. Elevating it used to help but now it seems
not to so much. It is like a stabbing pain and comes and goes at all hours.
I have seen all 6 cardiologists in the practice and 2 outside but no one
seems to want to say what can be done to correct this. They all say it
will heal...It's been since June! Any advice? Even if it is a nerve that's
damaged, what can be done? Thanks! • I had a heart cath 2 years ago and developed a
spinal L3 nerve tumor, surgery relieved only some of the pain. I now have
been diagnosed with a laban tear which I will need orthopedic surgery.
All of this may have been a result of the heart catheterization because
I was not sick before. My advice, get a spinal MRI with contrast to look
for nerve tumors and a hip and pelvic MRI with contrast in the leg not
with IV, to look for rips or lesions. I take 2400 mg of neurontin and tylenol
with codeine to help with the pain. I am still hoping to get better. This
is a helpful website. • Lisa -- it sometimes takes a while for the leg/groin
area to feel normal again. But certainly if you are feeling pain, you should
contact your interventional cardiologist and let him/her know this. And
Lexi -- thank you for writing in about your positive experiences. It is
very important to remember that complications occur in reported 3% of caths.
That means almost 97% of the time there is no complication at all. And
that's why it might be worrisome to readers to browse this Forum topic
-- we've become a sort of complaint department -- the vast number of posters
are patients who have had a problem, so you get a very skewed view of catheterization.
That being said, we believe that the 3% complication rate is under-reported
and it is important to raise awareness of these issues to improve patient
care. It is also important to have these postings so that patients who
are suffering complications can see that they are not alone in this. • I AM ONLY 34 AND HAD TO HAVE EMERGENCY HEART CATH
DONE AND HAD ANGIO SEAL USED TO CLOSE. I HAD BEEN TELLING HUSBAND THAT
I FELT LIKE I HAD TO DRAG MY LEG BECAUSE IT HURT TO MUCH TO BEND IT. JUST
SITTING OR LAYING IS PAINFUL. SAW THIS PAGE AND GOT VERY SCARED AND WORRIED!!!
WHAT SHOULD I DO? IT HAS ONLY BEEN ONE WEEK SINCE THE PROCEDURE? • I've had 2 angiograms and didn't have any complications
with either one so was very surprised when I read all of your comments.
I had mine done by two different doctors and both must have done a great
job because I didn't feel anything the whole time and was awake watching
it on the monitor. The only thing I noticed was a dime sized bruise on
my groin after the procedure. If I had read some of these comments before
I had the procedures I probably would not have let them do it. My heart
goes out to all of you that have these problems from the angio. • Dear John
Parkin -- Have your dad checked for a pseudoaneurysm? This is checked
with ultrasound and can easily be fixed with thrombin injected into the
pseudoaneurysm by an Interventional Radiologist. • My mother has seen a neurologist and they sent
her to a Vascular Doctor, and they told her that the pain would go away.
That was six months ago and it is not going away or even getting better.
She won't even go to see any more doctors, because they just send her somewhere
else. She has pretty much given up hope of her leg getting better. Another
thing is that when she had the heart cath, the doctor told us that she
had extremely small arteries and that they could not even put the plug
in afterward, could that be the also contribute to the pain? Is there anything
else she can do to make it better? • I have had another ultrasound and so far all they
can tell me is that I do not have a DVT, which I already knew. My leg is
still very swollen. It is down somewhat in the morning after sleeping,
but 15 minutes up and my leg is swollen again, its seems to be getting
worse not better. My leg is red and sometimes kinda purplish looking in
some spots. Pain is mostly from the swelling, does hurt and burn much more
when I am up on it. My angiogram was on January 11, one month ago. I am
concerned that walking on it might damage something, Has anyone else had
this happen? Thank you again. • I have large bruise spots after angiogram, what's
the cause? • Theresa -- you've posted to a topic about complications
from a femoral puncture. What you're describing (other than the minor pain)
is an electrical problem with your heart. You also mention getting an MRI
-- they are done for a number of reasons and you can get some information
from this article about Magnetic
Resonance Imaging. The test is not dangerous, but the condition you're
describing is something that needs pretty immediate attention -- any significant
heart rhythm disturbances need diagnosis and treatment right away. Mass
General is a highly-regarded medical center -- your electrophysiologist
(EP) is a cardiologist who specializes in the area of heart rhythm management
-- different from interventional cardiologists. There are various treatments
for heart rhythm problems, from medical management, to more invasive procedures
like cardio-ablation, or possibly pacemaker or defibrillator implants.
This field has been around for a while and the treatments are pretty sophisticated.
Ask questions -- hopefully the answers will help you feel clearer about
the prescribed treatments. Ans let the Forum know how you fare. • Anyone out there! I have had 3 angios. still have
minor pain in right groin. now discover after all meds, i've been on. I
saw a specialist at Mass Gen. he is a ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY specialist. am
very scared over this. as have been told it is very serious. the lower
chambers of my heart are not working. & they must go into the heart electrical
system. MRI of Heart 1st at Mass.Gen.Mass.has any one had this done? very
frightened over this. what are my dangers if i refuse? any info. will be
most appreciated from anyone! this must be done asap. and am too frightened
as the risks are scary. • Mame
from Minnesota -- if you continue to have problems, you should report
this to the cardiologist who did the angiogram. Any pain that lasts for
a few days is probably some type of complication -- one which the cardiologist
in the cath lab should be more familiar with. • Hi, Estelle
again. I am seeing my Cardiologist on Feb. 16th. You have been very
helpful and I have some questions to ask her but I do not expect confirmation
of any symptoms from the angio-seal and the surprising symptoms I have
had. I have excruciating pain often and almost went to ER again last
night. I am so disappointed in the medical profession which I was a part
of for over 30 years. I expected more from physicians. I want to donate
but I will not give my card numbers on a computer. I will look for an
address to mail some money. • Hi Laurel and
all! I'm so happy for you Laurel that you went through with the surgery.
How are things going now? Sorry I have been out of touch. I'm seriously
considering it. I'm scared that the nerve will be completely damaged and
I will lose all feeling in part of my leg. Not sure if that might be a
better alternative to this intense burning pain which nothing touches.
Moved up to stronger pain meds and Lyrica but only after a few weeks I've
already built up a tolerance to that. Laurel and anyone else please let
me know how you all are doing. God Bless you all. T in Mn. PS-Daria..I'm
amazed a dr. admitted to nicking your femoral artery..all my doctors never
so much as suggested it as being a problem which really put me behind on
the getting well scale. Ugh.. • I had the procedure
one week ago.They entered on right side groin. I have been in terrible
pain with a hard lump in my right groin. I wonder if this very sharp and
painful area is normal? I saw my Dr. four days ago and said it was probably
just a hematoma and it would get better.Well it has not, just the opposite
it is worse. In addition I have been running a low grade fever.The Dr.
I saw 4 days ago was my PCP not the Dr. who did the angiogram. • to SBS
Massachusetts; in August 2005 my father had angioplasty carried out.
he experienced some pain afterwards and was given morphine. he was admitted
to the coronary care unit at 5.45 p.m. at 2a.m. he became an emergency.
despite frantic efforts to resuscitate him he passed away. autopsy revealed
he died from hypovolaemic shock probably due to a breach in the artery
(although one could not be found). a large hematoma was seen in the pelvic
area, one litre of blood. we are far from satisfied that he received
adequate aftercare following the angioplasty procedure, and are presently
considering litigation. can anyone be of any help? thank you. • I went to the vascular surgeon, he ordered another
Doppler test, he thinks it might be a AV fistula, though they did not see
it on the first scan. He says he hears the turbulence noise in my leg.
This is so crazy all for a simple angiogram! I will keep you posted. • I had posted
earlier regarding the symptoms my boss/friend is having related to
her heart cath. Once again, Estelle, is describing the exact symptoms.
My friend went to see a neurologist this past week, and he told her that
he did not believe it was femoral nerve damage because the femoral nerve
only runs to the knee, and she described pain down to her toe, and radiating
up into her side. He is sending her for an MRI of the lower spine to
determine if it is damage to any other nerves. I will keep you posted
on those results. She is very discouraged because she was an active healthy
attorney before the heart cath. and now she can only work limited hours
each day. Something happened, and the doctors all act like it's so mysterious.
Hopefully, they will find out something soon. • Estelle, you're describing very similar symptoms
to many others in this Forum Topic. Have you been seen by a neurologist?
I would think you might need evaluation as to any nerve damage or trauma
-- only because of the numbness and "electrifying sensations" you
describe. • I was in the Emergency
Department with angina on November 19th, 2006. The next day they did a
cardiac cath using the right femoral artery. The experience was very painful
because I felt excruciating pain in my groin,abdomen and thigh. I had a
severe stiffing of my entire body and had the feeling of fainting. Since
then I have had pain in groin, abdomen, thigh, lower leg and foot. Also
I have had weakness, stabbing pains, electrifying sensations and numbness
in my right leg from groin to my toes. I told the Cardiologists all of
this but no one is admitting anything. I am now doing Physical Therapy
to strengthen my leg. The pain is excruciating a lot of the time and I
do not sleep well in any position. My family is opposed to taking narcotics
so I only had vicodin a week after i was in ER on Nov. 19th, 2006. Please
respond if you can. It seems there is very little hope for us as patients.
How long do I have to cope with these symptoms? • Sheila see my post from January
27th, it will tell the history. I am going to a vascular doctor today,
hopefully he will be able to tell why my leg is swollen and hurts, I
will write when I find out what's up, hopefully it will be helpful for
everyone. • No my leg did not swell that I can tell but I
have severe pain. What are your symptoms and what happened to you? • Hi Sheila, did your leg also swell along with
the pain, I am seeing a vascular doctor tomorrow for the same thing, but
also have swelling of my leg from the top all the way to my ankle. • (Last
posting Jan 22) Hi all well I saw the vascular doctor and all he
said is my leg has scar tissue and to return to the surgeon who did my
surgery. I have an appointment with the cardiologist Feb. 1, 2007 Any
suggestions what to say to him? I am still in severe pain. • Hello again.. (please
see my other posts for more
history) the site of my radial (wrist) angiogram has apparently developed
a fistula of sorts, a fistula I am told is an area where an artery and
a vein join together causing artery blood to go into the vein and visa
versa. I am waiting on an appointment to get a CT scan done on the area
to see better the extent of the problem, then maybe off to see a vascular
surgeon I am told. (though I am prepared to walk through walls to avoid
surgery) Most of the references to this I can find on the net say doc's
purposefully create a fistula for kidney dialysis procedures not from a
angiogram done 2 weeks before the lump came up. any thoughts? I would love
to hear from anyone else who has developed such a problem and how it was
dealt with. Thank you. • I believe it was angio seal. they did blood work
in ER 6 days ago, everything was ok.. But I cannot stand on my leg at all
without it swelling, I am going to my internist tomorrow and I will see
what he has to say. Thanks for info. • J.S. -- sounds like the seal didn't seal completely
when it was first used. We're assuming it was an Angio-Seal (do you know?)
which uses bovine collagen and small bioabsorbable metal anchor. Some people
are allergic to these substances. The collagen should be totally gone,
absorbed by the body, in 60-90 days. If you think you might be having an
allergic reaction or an infection, talk to your cardiologist. Also see
our "related topic" in the right-hand sidebar on "Vascular
Closure Devices". • Yes the site was closed with a seal, when I went
back to ER 11 days later they put pressure on it to seal it again. • J.S. -- do you know if the femoral (groin) catheter
insertion site was closed with a vascular closure device like Angio-Seal,
etc. or just using manual pressure? • I had angiogram on 1/11/07,
no blockage, everything went fine, small amount of discomfort, 11 days
later, my right leg started to swell, I felt like I am dragging a 50 lb
weight, right thigh hurts when I walk, can only walk short distance, went
to ER, ultrasound said there was some bleeding in two different spots one
lateral and the other medial? Doctor came in an applied pressure for 15
minutes, said bleeding stopped. There was no sign of blood clots. Doctor
told me to go home and lay flat for a couple of days, he saw me on the
3rd day, he says its just all the nerves and blood vessels touching and
sending signals that my leg is hurting? Told me to stay off when my leg
is swollen and get up when it is not! Well I cannot get up without it swelling
immediately. Now it is painful to walk, feels like all the muscles in my
leg are ready to burst. He also said he doesn't want to see me again unless
I really think it hasn't gone away. The groin site is not too sore, small
little lump that he said was normal, it seems mostly to be my leg giving
me me the trouble and also the swelling will not go away. My right leg
is more red in color than the left one, they did notice that in the hospital
and it has not changed. Has anyone else had this similar problem? • My mother was a candidate
for a cardiac catheterization She went in, they placed the stents. However
they didn't notice that they nicked her iliac artery. She spent 4-5 hours
in post-op internally bleeding, without any significant attention paid.
By the time they ordered the CAT scan, her blood was toxic, and her organs
were failing, she coded....for 40 minutes....the well-renowned teaching
hospital in Central Massachusetts, then spent the next 24 hours trying
to remedy something that they could not undo. She died. Order immediate
CAT Scans, as soon as you think something isn't right, if it's just taking
too long. My families prodding, and insistence could have saved her life.....Oh,
and by the way that treatment was acceptable as a medically recognizable
standard of care....which all medical lawsuits are based upon. www.docboard.org • Doug -- you might want to check out the "Related
Topics" at the top of the right hand sidebar -- there are a number
of femoral closure devices. A plug might be an Angio-Seal -- the most widely
used. It should have absorbed into the body by now, but some people have
been known to be allergic to bovine collagen. Anyway, by all means contact
your cardiologist earlier if you continue to have pain. • Doug again, Yes a closure device of some type
(he called it a plug) was used. I have a follow-up appointment with the
cardiologist in July and an appt with my general practitioner next month
for a regular check-up. I was waiting until then to bring it up but if
it continues to worsen at the rate it has this last week or so - I'll have
to get in earlier. • Doug -- was a femoral closure device used? Have
you contacted your cardiologist about this? • In July 2006 I had an angiogram done where they
went in through my right thigh. For a couple weeks afterwards I had what
I would call relatively mild pain that kind of felt like whenever I stood
up my bandage would be "ripping" off of my skin. You know that kind of
burn. The thing was that the pain continued for several days after the
bandages were removed. Eventually the pain went away a couple weeks after
the procedure. Now 5-6 months later a similar type of pain has returned
to the groin area but with more frequency. Is this common - where the pain
would go away and then return after several months - if there were damage
to the femoral nerve. The only thing that has really changed much is my
activity level. As a Basketball Referee I have done a lot more running
since November. • S.M. in Canada -- Let the Forum know what your
doctor tells you about the test results. We're not really sure from your
description exactly what type of tests were done, but make sure to communicate
this all to your physician (maybe write a brief description and hand it
to him/her). If tere is anything you do not understand, including terms
or names of tests, ask your doctor to write this down. Have someone accompany
you to your appointment to take notes or bring a portable tape recorder.
What's important is that you understand what the situation is -- which
you clearly don't right now. The red hot "zingy" you describe
sounds like a nerve to us, but it is really not feasible for anyone to
diagnose a problem long-distance. • Hello again.. Just had
the Doppler done today in Comox, the technician spent a long time over
the area.. then he asked me to wait until a doc saw the results and left..
a bit later a doc came in and did the same hunting and following of the
artery or veins. The area just off the insertion site at my wrist seemed
to show (they sorta explained when I asked what it meant) that arterial
blood was mixing with vein blood or visa versa.. red and blue were together
in those pics inside the vein or artery. Also there seemed a few hot spot
lookin places in the color scheme (doc requested the pinkish screen for
this one) that had an interest to them, they were passin the goopey wand
back and forth while discussing what I could not understand much of. Oh
and the technician had me push down with the heel of that hand while he
scanned the wrist area during and then again right after, then he later
pushed against my knuckles while asking me to hold against the force and
checked it at rest again. They will send their results and thoughts on
things to my regular doc and I am to go see him in 3-4 days. . also when
the wand passed over the start of the lump a pain would shoot back into
the inside elbow (the spot where they would draw blood?) like a red hot
needle, lotsa zingys and zappys while it all was being done too as they
applied pressure on my arm at times. seems I am always awaiting results..
They also mentioned another test too, shoulda wrote notes.. something about
arteries maybe. memory's shot lately.can you please explain what they were
looking at/for.. any thoughts? Thank you very much. • Sheila -- please let us know what the vascular
doc (we assume a vascular surgeon) says. Angio-seal contains bovine collagen
which some people are allergic to. • Hi
I had a heart cath and have the angio-seal closure device. Anyway I was
fine at first but about 2 weeks later I could not walk without limping
and being in severe pain. I have had nerve induction tests and no problems
were found. I am now going to a vascular doctor on wednesday January 25,
2007 Hopefully I will find out what is causing all this pain. • Gregg -- a hematoma at the insertion site is definitely
a complication of any catheter-based procedure. A hematoma is blood that
has leaked from the site to areas under the skin and looks like a large
bruise. It is usually minor and will go away in time. But it is always
important to report these complications and make sure the site is looked
at -- definitely NOT stupid! Was a vascular closure device used, such as
Angio-Seal or StarClose?? • Hi, I just had a cardio cath this past Monday
due to a abnormal stress test. The results of the cath were perfect, all
clear, but I have been having problems as a result of the procedure. The
day after the procedure I seemed to have a hard lump in my groin where
they did the procedure. Plus I had a lot of discoloration. I went back
to the hospital and they said it was a hematoma, but that it should be
fine and the lump did seem to go away. I have follow-up with my doctor
on 1/29. However, as of this morning, I still have severe discoloration
which has moved down through my inner thigh and a hard lump at the site
of the procedure, deeper inside. Is this normal? I feel almost stupid going
back the hospital again, if this is just how the process is. I could use
some advice. Thanks. • Hi again.. They used a brace on my arm that held
a pressure clamp directly over the incision site, thought it was breaking
my wrist, then they released it slowly over @ 6 hours a notch at a time.
and I had to stay in longer because the place I was staying (heart house)
was closed till 6:00 and I was still having chest pains but I think my
wrist was clamped too long or tight as they just finished the last notch
a half hr before I left, they do em like an assembly line and apparently
the patients usually only stay in 2-3 hrs without sedation. At first I
had a lot of numbness that stayed for days up into my thumb to my nail
bed, it stopped in a line directly between thumb and forefinger and included
a lot of the thumbpad and palm. That area still feels weird some times
kinda like there is a very thin layer of somethin on it, and it hurts to
move that thumb in a circle, sets the whole hand to cramping up if I try
too much. The Doppler is being done in hospital in Comox I hope soon, angio
was done in Victoria.(3-4 hrs away). I really should not have surgery as
I have RSD/CRPS I should have not had that angio but I thought they would
know the precautions.. I feel burning up my veins along the inside of that
arm.. This is maybe just RSD flaring in this area because of the nerve
trauma (my sympathetic nervous systems outta whack) I don't know. Thank
you so much for your responses, my docs pretty stumped about this and I
feel quite concerned (bit of an understatement). • S.M., Most sorry to hear your story. Was there
any closure device used in your radial angio?? Where is the Doppler being
done. We understand that your problems are in the wrist/arm. Is that correct? • Hello just an update from my
last post.. And to answer your question about contacting the cardiologist
who did the procedure on my arm.. he is in another town and hasn't returned
my calls, he was abrupt and rude and refused to take the precautions
we have to take with RSD/CRPS.. and I would really prefer not to deal
with him again. I went in to see my dr and he put me on antibiotics and
they did not help the swelling or pain past 6 days so today he ordered
a Doppler ultrasound. but the hospital couldn't do it without first getting
in a qualified heart doc to do it.. because being post angio complications.(small
town hospital) What sort of things would they be looking for? • Deanna -- if in fact there has been nerve trauma,
this is not something that might show up on an imaging test. A neurosurgeon
or neurologist can perform one of several nerve conduction tests to identify
and diagnose the cause of this problem. More about femoral nerve dysfunction
can be found in this
article from MedLine. It is a known complication of catheterization,
not common but it happens. And Sivanath from India -- you had a radial
or transradial approach -- are you having nerve problems? Not clear from
your post. If you are, you should see a neurologist. • My boss had a heart catheterization
on December 8, 2006, and she is experiencing the same symptoms as Rachael
W. from Pennsylvania. She is having pain in her right leg and inner
thigh, down to her toe, and it radiates up into her right pelvis. I would
like to try to help her to find a neurosurgeon who can properly diagnose
her, and hopefully help her. She's in the process of having CT scans, sonograms,
etc., and they're finding nothing. I believe she may have nerve damage,
from reading this forum. Any information would be helpful, and I would
be interested to know what Rachael W. may have found out from seeing the
neurosurgeon. Thank you. • I undergone angio last year and facing problem
with my right thumb and forefinger. Angio thru my right hand and other
doctors confirmed that flow in these figures are very less and also informed
collateral formation will take some more time... After this angio very
often i feel feverish and lot of weakness...Cardiologists advised to use
dilgium & loprin. Please advice what sort of complications i will face
and remedies for the same. • S.M. -- you had an angiogram done through the
radial artery. Have you contacted the interventional cardiologist who did
the procedure?? What did he/she say? • Hello there.. I had an
angiogram done on 12/27/06 and 11 days later developed a large lump at
the insertion site (it was done through the artery in my wrist) and when
I use my hand to help push myself up etc. it gets engorged and bruised
looking, it lasts a while then settles down to a normal color but the lump
stays and there's lots of pain in that area and into the thumb. The lump
is the size of (*******) and rounded over same, and firm almost like there's
a bone or a mass sticking out in there. Doc put me on antibiotics but they
haven't changed it, I do have RSD/CRPS as well. Thank you for your time
in this important matter. • Jessica -- has she been seen by a neurologist
to assess if she is having nerve trauma? • My mom had a heart catheterization about a year
ago and since then is having leg pain and numbness. Some days it is hard
for her to even walk. She has had many tests to figure out what is wrong
and they can't seem to find anything. What can she do to make this better?
I don't want her living in this much pain.
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