Radiation Safety for Operators and Patients-Cathing the Pregnant Patient: Timing, Counseling, and Monitoring

Cathing the Pregnant Patient: Timing, Counseling, and Monitoring

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Video Summary

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in pregnant women, and many deaths are preventable. The speaker emphasized that fear of fetal harm should not delay life-saving cardiac catheterization or interventions. A multidisciplinary Cardio-OB team is essential to guide care, reduce hesitation, and prepare for emergencies. Pregnancy increases risks from valvular disease, thrombosis, SCAD, and cardiomyopathy. Most cath lab procedures can be done safely with low radiation, careful positioning, and appropriate medications. Two cases showed successful PCI and mitral valvuloplasty with good maternal and fetal outcomes. Key message: do not deny indicated cath procedures because of pregnancy.

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Joanna Ghobrial, MD, FSCAI

Keywords

pregnancy cardiovascular disease

cardio-ob team

cardiac catheterization

maternal fetal outcomes

percutaneous coronary intervention