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Risks of Cardiac Catheterization Procedure in Old People

Cardiac catheterization is a commonly used diagnostic procedure that is usually done without incident. However, in the elderly population (specifically 75 and older), there is increased risk when this procedure is performed. Science Daily reports that the risks increase even more for ages 90 and above and that 60 percent of these patients will be deemed unfit for the procedure. Understanding what the risks are for your particular age is very important.

  1. Blood Clots

    • Blood clots or debris can lie against the wall of the artery and can become dislodged during the catheterization procedure. This clot or debris can travel through the blood stream until it is caught either in the heart or brain and results in a heart attack or stroke. A person of age is more likely to have a blood clot released in this manner especially if they have had prior history of blood clots.

    Cardiac Tamponade

    • A cardiac tamponade occurs when excess blood or fluid fills the sac that surrounds the heart (the pericardium). In an elderly person this can be caused when the catheter hits a piece of weakened tissue and causes a rupture. This causes increased pressure on the heart and the heart is unable to effectively beat and pump blood. This can cause sudden death if not found and rapidly treated.

    Kidney Damage

    • Kidney damage can be caused by the contrast material that is used during the procedure. The dye and contrast are used to allow the physician to have a better view to perform the procedure more effectively. People who are elderly and have diabetes and or kidney disease are at an increased risk. Kidney damage can lead to the kidney's shutting down completely, and dialysis will be needed.

    Allergic Reaction

    • An allergic reaction can occur as a result of the contrast material that is used. Hive and severe itching can occur and be very uncomfortable for the patient. However, the physician may treat this allergic reaction with other medications and essentially reduce the effects on you. The National Library of Medicine reports that it is important to let the physician know about any possible allergies (such as shellfish) or if you are taking the medication Viagra. It is also very important to follow the physician's directions before the test begins.

    Low Blood Pressure

    • In elderly patients, there is an increased risk for blood pressure to plummet during a cardiac catheterization procedure. This can be caused by an internal injury that results in massive bleeding in the chest cavity or at the catheter insertion site. It can also be caused when a cardiac tamponade or an injury to the heart occurs. This condition can be life threatening and is usually a sign to the doctor that there is a more serious problem such as the ones listed above.

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