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Real members of myPHteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Hi all, I was diagnosed with PHTN in 2007. Have done well since then on Sildenafil; no O2.

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Denver, CO

I have cardiac echos each year which have shown pressures slowly worsening. Want to move out of the high altitude of CO soon as I do so well in lower altitude states. My pulmonologist at Anschutz in Denver wants to do a R heart cath for more accurate update. My last one was in 2007 via the femoral/groin area and now he wants to go in via the neck. This is frightening to me. Does anyone have experience with this and how did it go? I am worried about complications, of course. Thank you!

March 2
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly reassured someone anxious about an upcoming right heart catheterization through the neck, with the consensus being that... Read more

Members overwhelmingly reassured someone anxious about an upcoming right heart catheterization through the neck, with the consensus being that the neck route is often easier, faster, and less complicated than groin or wrist procedures. Several members shared their own experiences across multiple catheterizations, describing minimal pain with only local lidocaine, quick recovery times, and noting that the neck offers the shortest path to the heart. A recurring theme was acknowledging the natural fear while encouraging the member to trust the process, lean on prayer or calming techniques, and remember that accurate pressure readings from the catheterization are essential for proper treatment planning.

A myPHteam Member

I've had 3 in the neck. No problems or pain. I wish you the best with that and your move from CO. We used to summer there. Beautiful country but not good for PAH patients.

March 5
A myPHteam Member

I've had 2 rhcs through the neck.
No issues at all.

March 3
A myPHteam Member

Thank you, and yes, CO is much too high for patients with PH.

March 5
A myPHteam Member

@A myPHteam Member We're all in this together. You'll be okay. We all share our strength with you.

And you mentioned considering leaving high altitude Denver...You might want to consider either the Phoenix area or Tucson. Not only is Arizona blessed with FIVE PH Clinics with another starting up but our low altitude, low humidity and warm temperatures are all very PH friendly.

March 3
A myPHteam Member

I had my first catheterization through the groin and ended up with a blood clot in my lungs but they did not catch it and had it be rushed back to Hospital. My boyfriend knew something was wrong with me. I had my second catheterization in my neck and it went so much easier.

March 3

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