Angio-seal – advice for patients following insertion of an angio-seal

Following your procedure, the femoral artery (a large artery in the leg, extending from your hip to knee) at the top of your leg has been sealed by a closure device called an angio-seal. This closes the hole in the artery wall and reduces the risk of bleeding and the amount of time you must remain on bed-rest.

The device is completely absorbed naturally within 60 to 90 days.

The following advice/information may be helpful to you:

• You may sit up at an angle of between 30° to 40° immediately.
• You will be able to get up after about 30 minutes and may be discharged one hour after this.
• Move around gently for the first 48 to 72 hours and avoid lifting. You may then return to your normal activities.
• If you cough, sneeze or strain during the first 12 hours, place your hand over the puncture site to support it.
• Do not drive for 24 hours following your procedure.
• The dressing should be left in place for 48 hours and changed if it gets wet.
• Avoid bathing for three to four days, but you can take showers.
• You may feel a pea sized lump in your groin, but this will disappear in a couple of months.

Further information

• You will be given an angio-seal information card which you should keep for 90 days. If you experience any problems related to the site you are advised to contact your GP. These may include:
  • Fever
  • Bleeding
  • Persistent tenderness or swelling in the groin
  • Rash
  • Numbness or pain in the leg when walking
  • Redness or oozing from the site