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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
11:38
Voluntary Breath-hold Technique for Reducing Heart Dose in Left Breast Radiotherapy
Published on: July 3, 2014
[Radiotherapy for breast cancer and pacemaker]
Summary
Radiotherapy for breast cancer is feasible and safe in patients with permanent pacemakers. Repositioning the device and daily monitoring ensured no pacemaker dysfunction occurred during treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cardiology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Patients with permanent cardiac pacemakers may require radiotherapy.
- Radiotherapy can potentially cause pacemaker malfunction due to radiation or electromagnetic interference.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and tolerance of radiotherapy in breast cancer patients with permanent pacemakers.
- To evaluate safety and efficacy of radiation therapy in pacemaker patients.
Main Methods:
- Seven pacemaker patients undergoing breast cancer radiotherapy were monitored.
- Pacemakers were repositioned in four cases before irradiation.
- Daily monitoring by radiation oncologists and pre/post-radiotherapy checks by cardiologists were performed.
Main Results:
- Six of seven patients received radiotherapy; one was declined.
- Pacemaker generators received less than 2 Gy dose.
- No pacemaker dysfunction was observed during radiotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Multidisciplinary approach, including pacemaker repositioning and daily monitoring, enables safe radiotherapy.
- Updated guidelines on acceptable radiation doses for pacemakers are needed.
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