After Radial Artery Harvesting
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
What should I expect after radial artery harvesting?
You will need to monitor your harvest site for any problems for up to 2 weeks. Check for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or foul-smelling drainage. Check for bleeding or a hematoma (collection of blood) at the site. Look for signs of decreased blood flow, such as cold, numb, pale or blue fingers. Seek care immediately if you notice any of these or have trouble moving your fingers.
How do I care for the harvest site?
Care for the harvest site as directed. Do not get the area wet until your healthcare provider says it is okay. When it is okay to bathe, do not scrub the area. Just let water run over it. Dry the area and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty. Do not put powders or lotions over your harvest site. Check the area every day for signs of infection.
What activity instructions should I follow?
Your healthcare provider will give you specific activity instructions. The following are general guidelines to follow for up to 2 weeks after surgery:
- Do not lift anything heavier than 5 pounds until your healthcare provider says it is okay.
- Do not push or pull anything with the arm that was operated on. Examples include a car door or a vacuum cleaner.
- Do not drive until your healthcare provider says it is okay.
How can I prevent another blocked artery?
- Eat heart-healthy foods. You may need to eat foods that are low in salt, fat, or cholesterol. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about a heart-healthy diet.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause heart and lung damage. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your provider before you use these products.
- Limit or do not drink alcohol. Ask your provider if it is okay for you to drink alcohol and how much is okay to drink. A drink of alcohol is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of liquor.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Ask your healthcare provider what a healthy weight is for you. Obesity or overweight can increase the stress on your heart. Your provider can help you create a safe weight loss plan, if needed.
- Get vaccines as directed. Vaccines help prevent diseases that can be dangerous for a person who has heart disease. Get a flu vaccine as soon as recommended each year, usually in September or October. Get all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses and boosters. A pneumonia vaccine may also be recommended. Your provider will tell you if you need other vaccines, and when to get them.
When should I seek immediate care?
- Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
- You have new or worsening bruising at the harvest site.
- Your harvest site is red, warm to the touch, or draining fluid.
When should I call my doctor?
- You have a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Care Agreement
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