Coronary angiography is a very important test in the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease. However, despite the importance of coronary angiography in diagnosing cardiovascular disease, it does have some potential harms and risks. This article will examine the three main harms of coronary angiography.
1. Allergy to contrast media
Coronary angiography requires the use of a contrast agent to aid in development, and some patients may experience allergic reactions to contrast agents. Mild allergic reactions may only manifest as itching, hives, etc., but severe allergic reactions may lead to shock, difficulty breathing, and even death. For patients with allergies or a history of contrast allergy, it is recommended to have an allergy test or use other tests before the contrast to reduce the risk of allergies.
2. Vascular injury
Coronary angiography involves inserting a catheter through a puncture blood vessel into the heart, which can cause damage to the blood vessels. Vascular damage may lead to complications such as local hematoma, hemorrhage, and thrombosis, of which thrombosis is one of the most serious complications. In order to reduce the risk of vascular injury, the doctor needs to strictly follow the operation protocol during the procedure, and the patient needs to cooperate with the doctor to carry out the necessary preoperative preparation and postoperative care.
3. Radiation exposure
Coronary angiography requires the use of X-rays or other radioactive materials for imaging, so patients may be exposed to a dose of radiation. Radiation exposure may increase the risk of cancer, especially in the case of high doses of radiation. To reduce the risk of radiation exposure, doctors will choose appropriate imaging methods and protective measures, and patients can wear protective equipment such as protective clothing during the examination.
In short, as an important method for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases, although there are some potential hazards and risks, as long as the operation specifications are strictly adhered to during the operation, and the patient actively cooperates and pays attention to the necessary protective measures, the risk can be minimized. Before undergoing a coronary angiography, patients should fully communicate with their doctor to understand the details of the examination and the possible risks in order to make a more informed decision.
In addition to the three main hazards mentioned above, coronary angiography may also be accompanied by several other potential risks and complications, such as arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, etc. These complications may have an impact on the patient's health and therefore require necessary treatment and follow-up under the guidance of a doctor**.
In addition, for some special populations, such as pregnant women, children, and the elderly, the risk of coronary angiography may also vary. For example, pregnant women may need to consider the health and safety of the fetus when undergoing a coronary angiography; Children and the elderly may require special anesthesia or sedation, etc. Therefore, in these special cases, patients should fully understand the risks and precautions of the examination in order to make a more reasonable decision.
In conclusion, as an important method for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases, coronary angiography has risks and complications, but the risks can be minimized with necessary treatment and follow-up under the guidance of a doctor. At the same time, patients should be fully aware of the details of the examination and the possible risks in order to make more informed decisions. For special populations, such as pregnant women, children, the elderly, etc., patients should fully communicate with their doctors to understand the risks and precautions of the examination, so as to better cope with the possible risks and complications.