Discharge Advice Following Angio-Seal

After the procedure

• Following your angiogram / angioplasty, a closure device called an Angio-seal, which is made of collagen, has been used to plug the puncture site in your artery 
• The body naturally absorbs the collagen plug in approximately 90 days; during this time, you should always carry your patient information card with you
• You may feel a pea size lump in your groin or mild tenderness at this site
• If, however, you experience constant tenderness at the groin site, contact your General Practitioner (GP)
• You should be accompanied home and have a friend or relative to stay with you overnight
• If severe bleeding occurs at the puncture site, lie down and apply firm pressure. Ring 999 and return immediately to your nearest Emergency Department, this does not have to be Wigan Infirmary
• If a large swelling or sudden pain occurs at the puncture site, go immediately to your nearest Emergency Department
• If you experience loss of sensation, numbness or swelling of limb through which the angiogram / angioplasty was performed, visit your nearest Emergency Department.
• Sometimes bruising of the groin, leg or abdomen may occur and a small lump may be present for several weeks. If you feel pain or the lump enlarges, see your GP

Do’s & Don’ts 

• Do not perform any lifting which may lead to straining, any lifting greater than 5kg and any strenuous exercise for approximately one week 
• Do remain off work for two to three days
• It is advisable to drink plenty of fluids, especially water over the next few days; this will assist with flushing the x-ray contrast out of your body
• It is advisable to refrain from the consumption of alcohol for 24 hours
• You may shower but avoid having a bath for four days
• The following day, gently clean the site with soap and water. Dry the area gently, the skin heals in approximately four days. Do not use cream or lotions near the puncture site
• Refrain from driving for at least 36 hours following your angiogram / angioplasty
• If you take Warfarin / Apixaban / Rivaroxaban / Edoxaban, you may restart during the evening following your angiogram, unless the doctor has instructed otherwise

Contact details 

Please contact the Interventional Radiology Department 01942 778713 Monday to Friday 09.00-17.00 if you have any questions.