There is the possibility of significant complications:
A reaction to the contrast dye can occur.
There is some risk of the catheter damaging the artery or knocking loose a piece of the artery wall, which can block blood flow and cause a stroke. This is rare, however.
A clot or bleeding at the puncture site may result in a partial blockage of the blood to the leg.
Special considerations:
Notify your health care provider immediately if you have:
Facial weakness
Slurred speech
Visual trouble
Numbness in your leg during or after the procedure
Review Date: 11/3/2004
Reviewed By: Jeffrey J. Brown, MD FACR, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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