Dr. Cindy Grines answers the question: 'Rest After Cardiac Catheterization?'
Question: How long should I rest after a cardiac catheterization?
Answer: Well, the recovery period after cardiac catheterization can vary depending on which blood vessel was used. So, for example, if one goes into the radial artery, which is in the wrist, it has very low complication rates of bleeding, and so the patients are allowed to get up more quickly, and perhaps do normal activities more quickly.
On the other hand, if the access is down in the femoral artery, in the groin area, that is a little more risky in terms of prolonged recovery. Several hours after the procedure, and then it's usually recommended to not drive, or to do heavy lifting or vigorous activity for a few days.
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