I'm really worried about my mom having to go through an angiogram and possibly getting a stent. She's 60 years old and on the heavier side. Do you think she'll be able to handle the pain from the procedure? Also, are there any serious risks or complications we should be aware of? Any advice would be really helpful.
At 60 years old, angiograms and stent procedures are routinely performed on patients in this age group, including those who are overweight. The procedure is generally considered safe when performed by experienced medical professionals, with serious complications being relatively rare (occurring in less than 1% of cases). However, like any medical procedure, there are some risks - these include bleeding at the catheter site, allergic reactions to the dye used, kidney problems, and in very rare cases, more serious complications. Your mother's doctors will carefully evaluate her overall health, including factors like her heart function, kidney function, and any other medical conditions, to ensure she can safely undergo the procedure. They'll also use appropriate pain management techniques during and after the procedure to keep her comfortable. The most important thing is to discuss any specific concerns with her healthcare team, as they know her complete medical history and can give personalized advice about her particular case.