Coronary angioplasty is widely practiced and has a number of risks;[16] however, major procedural complications are uncommon. Coronary angioplasty is usually performed by an interventional cardiologist, a medical doctor with special training in the treatment of the heart using invasive catheter-based procedures.[citation needed]

The patient is usually awake during angioplasty, and chest discomfort may be experienced during the procedure; the reporting of symptoms indicates the procedure is causing ischemia and the cardiologist may alter or abort part of the procedure. Bleeding from the insertion point in the groin is common, in part due to the use of anti-platelet clotting drugs. Some bruising is therefore to be expected, but occasionally a hematoma may form. This may delay hospital discharge as flow from the artery into the hematoma may continue (pseudoaneurysm) which requires surgical repair. Infection at the skin puncture site is rare and dissection (tearing) of the access blood vessel is uncommon. Allergic reaction to the contrast dye used is possible, but has been reduced with the newer agents. Deterioration of kidney function can occur in patients with pre-existing kidney disease, but kidney failure requiring dialysis is rare. Vascular access complications are less common and less serious when the procedure is performed via the radial artery.[citation needed]

• People aged 75 and older
• People who have kidney disease or diabetes
• Women
• People who have poor pumping function in their hearts
• People who have extensive heart disease and blockages