Risks of Cardiac Catheterization

The risk for serious complications (e.g., stroke, heart attack) from cardiac catheterization is approximately 1 in 1000. Other complications of cardiac cath include the following:

  • Allergic reaction to iodine-based dye
  • Bleeding at the insertion site
  • Damage to arteries
  • Infection at the insertion site
  • Kidney damage and/or kidney failure

Publication Review By: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.

Published: 01 Jul 2001

Last Modified: 23 May 2011