What are the risks associated with cardiac catheterization in morbidly obese patients?
Cardiac catheterization in morbidly obese patients can be associated with a higher risk of procedural complications, such as vascular complications, arrhythmias, and death. Other potential risks include infection, bleeding, and stroke. Patients should be counseled regarding these potential risks prior to undergoing the procedure. Additionally, obese patients may experience increased difficulty in positioning and difficulty in manipulating the catheter, leading to an increased risk of procedure-related complications. 