What are the risks of the procedure?

The risk of complications for patients undergoing cardiac catheterization electively is low. The most common complications include bleeding or discomfort at the site of access, either in the groin or the wrist. Rarely do these bleeding complications require a blood transfusion or surgery to fix the artery. Less common, though more dangerous, complications can occur, including stroke, heart attack, or even death. You should talk to your doctor about these risks.