Coronary angiography recovery 

An angiogram is normally performed as a day case, so you should be able to return home the same day, depending on the results of the procedure.

If the angiogram catheter was inserted through your groin, you will need to rest in bed for about three hours after the procedure.

For the first hour you will need to lie flat, and then you will be allowed to sit up. You will be expected to stay on the ward for at least another hour.

If you notice that you start to bleed from the catheter insertion site, tell the nurse who will apply pressure to the site to stop any bleeding.

If the catheter was inserted into your wrist, a pressure device called a closure-pad/angioseal dressing will be kept in place for about two hours and you will not need any stitches.

Returning home
You must not drive after the angiogram, nor should you use buses, the underground or other methods of public transport.

You should return home by car, taxi or by main line train. You will also need someone to accompany you.

When you arrive back home you should rest and limit walking for at least 48 hours.

Activities to avoid:

• Don't drive for 48 hours
• Don't lift anything heavy and avoid unnecessary bending for two to three days
• Don't have a bath for two to three days if the catheter insertion site was in your groin. You can have a warm shower instead
• Don't have sex for at least two to three days

Taking care of your wound

• Do not use soap, talc or other cosmetics on or near your wounds for the first week after the angiogram
• If you have a closure-pad/angioseal dressing, you can remove it after 24 hours
• You may have some bruising that will eventually fade

Contact your doctor if the following happens:

• Your wound becomes swollen and red
• Your temperature increases
• Your bruising gets worse or becomes painful
• Your fingers go numb or tingly (if the catheter was inserted into a vein in your wrist)

Medication
You should continue taking your medicines as normal, unless your doctor says anything to the contrary.

Results
Your angiogram results and details of any new treatment or medication will be sent to your GP and local hospital consultant within about six weeks.

Refs:
1) Barts and the London NHS Trust
 Cardiac Services