Can Angiography Cause Death?
November 8, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Angiography is a medical procedure used to visualize and evaluate blood vessels in the body, typically the arteries. It is generally considered a safe and well-established diagnostic tool. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks associated with angiography, although the risk of death is relatively low.
Complications or risks associated with angiography may include:
- Allergic Reaction: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during angiography. While allergic reactions can be severe, they are typically managed with medications and medical intervention.
- Infection: There is a very low risk of infection at the site of catheter insertion.
- Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding or hematoma (collection of blood outside the vessel) at the catheter insertion site.
- Blood Clots: In rare cases, angiography can dislodge a blood clot that may travel to other parts of the body, which could potentially lead to serious complications.
- Kidney Damage: The contrast dye used in angiography can affect kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney problems.
- Stroke or Neurological Complications: In some cases, angiography can lead to embolization (blockage of a blood vessel) or other complications that may result in a stroke or neurological issues.
- Rare Life-Threatening Complications: Very rarely, there can be life-threatening complications such as an embolism or perforation of a blood vessel.
It’s important to note that while these risks exist, they are relatively uncommon, and the vast majority of angiography procedures are performed without serious complications. The benefits of angiography in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions often outweigh the risks.
The risk of death from angiography is exceedingly low, and when performed by skilled healthcare professionals in a controlled and monitored environment, the procedure is generally considered safe. However, it’s important for individuals to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider before undergoing angiography to make an informed decision about the procedure. If you have concerns or underlying medical conditions that may increase your risk, your healthcare provider can provide guidance and take steps to minimize potential complications.