Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most often asked questions after a vascular procedure.

When Does The Dressing Come Off?
You may remove the pressure dressing the next day. It is usually easiest to remove it in the shower with soapy warm water, which helps take off the adhesive. Apply a small adhesive bandage over the puncture wound for the first two days, then leave the area open to air (change the bandage daily).

Will I have Any Bruising Or Permanent Scars?
Some bruising and even a small hard knot may occur. This will go away in time. Unless otherwise instructed, you may take acetaminophen if the area is painful. Notify your physician if you have any numbness or excessive pain in the affected extremity.

Will This Procedure Cure My Problem?
Peripheral vascular disease is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries (arteriosclerosis). Currently, there is no cure for this disease. However, your procedure should help alleviate pain and provide oxygen to the tissues.

Should I Restrict My Activities?
You may resume your normal activities unless otherwise instructed by your physician. You may drive the day after the procedure. However, you cannot drive yourself home, so please arrange in advance to have someone drive you to and from the hospital. Daily walking is crucial to your well-being. You should walk until you feel pain, stop and then resume walking. This helps stimulate the growth of smaller arteries called collaterals.

What About My Diet?
Diet is very important in the control of vascular disease. Although there is no cure for arteriosclerosis, current research shows that a diet that is very low in fats (no fried foods, very little meat and dairy products and lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, cereals and breads) can help slow the progression of blockage and in some cases, even reverse it.

Cardiovascular diagnostic and interventional procedures may cause unexpected problems, but serious and life-threatening problems are unusual. Your Florida Heart Group physician will discuss the potential risks and benefits in detail so you can both decide which treatment is best for you.