What is the preparation for cardiac catheterization?

Before your test: Don’t eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before your test, or as directed by your doctor. Having food or drink in your stomach can increase your risk of complications from anesthesia. Ask your doctor or nurse if you should take your medications with a small amount of water.

Can you eat before catheterization?

Just before the process of cardiac catheterization begins, you need to keep a few things in mind. Don’t drink or eat anything for 6 to 8 hours prior to your test.

What medications should be held before cardiac catheterization?

Pradaxa (dabigatran), Xarelto (rivaroxaban) or Eliquis (apixaban) will be stopped prior to procedure. Your physician will provide you with a stop taking date.

Is a cardiac catheterization considered surgery?

Cardiac catheterization is not considered a surgical procedure because there is no large incision used to open the chest, and the recovery time is much shorter than that of surgery. In some cases, surgery may be recommended afterward, depending on the results of the procedure.

What can go wrong during a heart catheterization?

The risks associated with catheterization include: an allergic reaction to the contrast material or medications used during the procedure. bleeding, infection, and bruising at the catheter insertion site. blood clots, which may trigger a heart attack, stroke, or another serious problem.

What to expect after your cardiac catheterization procedure?

What to Expect After Your Cardiac Catheterization Procedure. Your family will receive preliminary results of the catheterization. IV fluids will run continuously until you can drink adequately on your own. Once you’re awake, you may drink clear liquids (apple juice, water). Your diet will be advanced as tolerated.

How serious is a heart catheterization?

Serious complications of cardiac catheterization are considered rare, but the risk of a heart attack or stroke exists. Less common risks include damage to an artery or the heart. Slight bruising or bleeding in the groin where the catheter is inserted represents a common occurrence.

How long does a cardiac catheterization take?

It takes only about 30 minutes to take the pictures during a cardiac catheterization procedure. Other time is for set-up to make sure that everything is sterile so no infection occurs. The routine cardiac catheterization usually takes less than 30 minutes to complete.

Can you die from a cardiac catheterization?

Cardiac catheterization can be dangerous since it is an invasive procedure, but under good care with physicians with a lot of experience, the risks can be minimized. The odds of death from a diagnostic procedure are low. However, if an intervention is performed, that risk increases significantly.

What is the preparation for cardiac catheterization? Before your test: Don’t eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before your test, or as directed by your doctor. Having food or drink in your stomach can increase your risk of complications from anesthesia. Ask your doctor or nurse if you should take your medications…