After the Exam and Recovery

After the exam, the medical team will remove the catheter from your vessel. To prevent bleeding, the artery will be sealed using a specialized closure device or by applying firm pressure.

What to expect during recovery

• A staff member will take you back to your room.
• You will be required to lie flat on your back for two to six hours depending on the procedure.
• If your groin was used as an access site for the procedure, you will need to keep your leg straight to promote healing and to decrease risk of bleeding.
• If an angioplasty was performed or stents placed, you might be given blood-thinning medications and will need to stay overnight in the hospital.
• You will be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and to flush the contrast dye from your kidneys.
• If you did not receive a urinary catheter, the staff will assist you with a urinal or bedpan to empty your bladder.

When you are ready to leave the hospital, you will need someone to drive you home. At home, you may eat normally and should continue to drink plenty of fluids.

For the first 24 hours, you should avoid physical activities such as lifting, driving and climbing stairs. You might have mild discomfort and a small to moderate amount of bruising in the area where the catheters were placed.

If you have any questions or concerns once you leave the hospital, please contact your physician.