Results of my coronary angiogram
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Recovery Method
Wrist
The compression bracelet used (TR band) will be taken off before you go home. Do not wear jewellery or a watch on the wrist for 7 days.
Groin
An Angioseal (plug) may be put in the artery in the groin to stop any bleeding. This is made from collagen and will dissolve within 3 months. The Angioseal will feel like a small bead or pea sized lump in the groin, this is normal and will slowly reduce as it dissolves. Ensure you carry your patient information card with you for three months. If the Angioseal is not used, the nurse may press on the groin or use a special item of equipment to press on the groin to stop any bleeding.
How should I care for the puncture site?
Check the puncture site once a day, for the next seven days, and contact the hospital if you have any concerns. Your nurse will explain what to look for and what is normal.
We do not expect any serious problems following your procedure however if you notice any of the following:
Excessive bleeding or swelling from your puncture site. Lie down and apply pressure. Dial 999 for an ambulance.
Coldness, blueness, numbness or excessive pain in the affected arm or leg. Dial 999 for an ambulance.
Bruising around the puncture site. This is fairly common. If it is excessive or you are worried, please contact the Cardiology Unit for advice.
Silver Heart unit/Ward 1 on 0161 778 2501
Coronary Care Unit/ward 2 on 0161 778 3983
Do not do any heavy lifting for 5 days, for example carrying shopping bags, vacuuming, lawn mowing or dog walking using the affected arm.
When can I have a shower and/or a bath?
You may shower the day after the angiogram. The clear plaster should be removed after 24 hours. Do not put any cream, lotion or perfumes on the puncture site. Do not bath, swim or soak the puncture site in water for 7 days (i.e. no washing up).
Allergies
Most allergic reaction symptoms such as a rash, difficulty breathing or swelling occur immediately or within a few hours of exposure to an allergen. This is why we keep you on the ward for a few hours post procedure. On rare occasions, there can be a delay in allergic symptoms occurring. If you think you are experiencing an allergic reaction, please dial 999 for an ambulance in an emergency or present to your local Accident and Emergency Department informing them you have had an angiogram recently. At your earliest convenience please also phone the Cardiology Unit to inform them of your allergy so it can be documented in your notes.
Silver Heart unit/Ward 1 on 0161 778 2501
Coronary Care Unit/ward 2 on 0161 778 3983
I am diabetic what should I do about my tablets?
If you have diabetes, you may be advised to stop or alter your medications for 2 days after the procedure. Advice will be given accordingly.
Medication:
Please re-start on:
Day:
Date:
Continue with insulin and other medications as usual.
Anticoagulation (Blood-thinning medication)
If you take any blood-thinning medications (anti-coagulation) advice will be given accordingly.
Medication:
Please re-start on:
Day:
Date:
Changes to medication
If any changes to your medications are required a letter will be written to your GP to advise them of the changes.
When can I drive after the angiogram?
The DVLA make the following recommendations regarding driving.
- After an angiogram: do not drive for at least 3 days
- After a planned angioplasty: do not drive for 1 week
- If you have had a heart attack: driving should be delayed for 4 weeks.
You do not need to inform the DVLA that you have had an angiogram unless you hold a group 2 licence.
Group 1 drivers (cars and motorcycles). The DVLA does not restrict drivers having had an angiogram but does advise that patients suffering from angina occurring at rest, with emotion or behind the wheel only recommence driving when satisfactory symptom control is achieved.
Group 2 drivers (lorries and buses) your licence is refused or revoked with continuing angina symptoms (treated and/ or untreated).
When can I return to work?
When you return to work will depend on what you do for a job. General guidance is 3 days after an angiogram and 1 week following angioplasty. If you have had a heart attack, then you will likely need 4-6 weeks off work. You may self-certificate for less than 7 days.
Contact numbers
Silver Heart Unit/Ward 1 - 0161 778 2501
Coronary Care Unit/Ward 2 - 0161 778 3983
Northern Care Alliance Switchboard - 0161 624 0420
Useful Websites and numbers
British Heart Foundation - Heart Information Line - 0808 802 1234 (freephone) Weekdays 9am-5pm.
Website address: www.bhf.org.uk
NHS Direct - Call 111
DVLA - Enquires line Telephone - 0300 790 6801 (local rate)
Website address: www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla
Smoking Cessation – NHS Smokefree National Helpline: 0300 123 1044. Monday-Friday 9am-8pm.
Website address: www.smokefree.nhs.uk
Date of Review: March 2025
Date of Next Review: March 2027
Ref No: PI_M_770 (BRO)