Femoral nerve dysfunction

Ii am a 68 year old, white, female. I had a heart catheterization on May 9, 2008. Stayed in the hospital overnight because of angioplasty. About 48 hours after cath, I began having a "heavy, uncomfotrtable sensation" in the front of my right thigh and partially down the front of the right leg. I was told this wasw from the cath and would probably go away in about 2 weeks, but it seems to be getting worse. I can walk only a short distance (90 feet) without the sensation starting. Is there any treatment for this and how long will it last? I am a very active person and am very frustrated with this. Thanks for your help.

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

I'm sorry to hear what happened. What happened with the femoral area may indeed be a risk of the catheterization procedure.  Nerve recovery may really take some time, and for some people this can last months.  Rehabilitation and exercise under the guidance of a physical therapist are the key.  Also, make sure that the doctors rule out a possible hematoma formation (blood clot) in the area of catheterization, since hematomas can cause prolonged compression of the blood vessels and nerves in the area, halting complete recovery.  I suggest you discuss these possibilities with your doctors and I'm hoping for your full recovery.  

Regards and God bless.