Physiological effects and complications of cardiovascular angiography

After injection, there is usually a transient burning sensation, especially in the head and face. Cardiovascular reactions include tachycardia, a slight decrease in systemic blood pressure, and an increase in cardiac output. Minor side effects include nausea, vomiting and coughing. Serious complications (such as cardiac arrest, anaphylaxis, shock, convulsions, cyanosis, renal toxicity) are rare. Patients with high red blood cell ratio are prone to thrombosis. Hematocrit should be <65% before angiography. Allergic reactions may include urticaria and conjunctivitis, usually 50 mg of diphenhydramine intravenously. Rare reactions are bronchospasm, throat edema and dyspnea. Salbutamol or epinephrine is used for treatment. Ventricular arrhythmia is common when the tip of the catheter touches the ventricular membrane, but ventricular fibrillation is rare. Contrast agents are hypertonic and are excreted through the kidneys.