Hi Inny,
First they inject a radioactive dye into a vein. Then they medicate you so you are relaxed. Then they clean the groin, shave the insertion point which is right into the femoral artery of the groin. Then they numb it up and insert a tube with guidewire all the way through that vein up to your heart. This whole process is visualized on a monitor so you can watch if you want to. My doc actually took the wire and "tickled" my heart and I could feel it fluttering. It never hurt.

Then you have to go back to your room and lay flat for 8 to 12 hours -- can't bend the leg to keep that vein healing closed. Yep, that means bedpan if you don't have a urine cath which I didn't. Can't get up or even bend your knee.

My groin did hurt for a few months. But no other repercussions.

I hope I didn't gross you out!
Best,
Okie