My son 43 has just had a cardiac catheter fitted and has been told he needs another catheter due to the damage in his heart. what are the long term complications of this?

I know you are distressed about the need for the catheter changed however the need for catheter change is to prevent long term complications. You did not give enough information about why the catheter was placed and what type of catheter. It is important to have your son talk to his doctor to better understand what and why is being done.

From your question, it is unclear whether he had pacemaker catheter implanted previously and now has been told that he needs an additional catheter. If this is the case, it is not that rare. Only a discussion with the doctor in charge will provide you with a clear answer and help alleviate some of your anxiety. Please insist on being able to talk to the doctor. Good luck.