Analysis of the complications of cardiac catheterization over nine years

The mortality and morbidity associated with cardiac catheterization at the Minneapolls VA Modical Center has been analysed over a period of nine years (1971–1979) In order to identity correctable problems, obtain accurate data for patient information, and allow comparison with other institutions. In common with reports from other cather laboratories, the mortality has fallen from 0.74% (952 patients) between 1971 and 1975 to 0.24% (819) patients between 176 and 1979. There has been a similar deciline in the combined incidence of myocardial infarction and carebral embolism from 1.05% to 0.24% over the same period. Our patients with ischemic heart disease included many at high risk of complications in that three vessel disease was present in 53% and the ejection fraction was loss than 50% in 24% of cases. In order to ensure that the best standards of cardiac catheterization are maintained, we agree with a recent auggestion that there should be a national survelliance program monitoring fatality and complication rates in catheterization laboratoris.