The most common complication is bleeding due to the puncture of a large blood vessel. If this occurs, it is usually limited to the puncture site and will result in minor bruising. Sometimes a small lump occurs, but will go away in a week or so. The possibility of a heart attack, stroke, blockage of a blood vessel or death is very rare. Your doctor will talk with you concerning your risk and answer any questions you may have.
Experienced personnel are prepared to act immediately in the event of any complication.
Your doctor will decide when you will be able eat and drink after the test. You will remain in bed for about 4-6 hours, with the head of the bed either flat or slightly raised. The nurse will check your catheter insertion site, take your blood pressure and heart rate and ask you to drink frequently once the doctor allows you to have liquids. The IV will remain in place for about three hours and you may have a small sandbag on the catheter insertion site for four hours to prevent bleeding. It is not uncommon to have swelling, bruising and a small marble-sized knot at the catheter insertion site.