Interventional Radiology and Pregnancy: From Conception through Delivery and Beyond

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Interventional Radiology
• Obstetrics & Gynecology

Background:

• Interventional radiology (IR) is crucial for pregnant patients.
• Pregnancy involves unique physiological changes and requires special considerations for radiation and medications.
• Standard IR procedures are often safe in pregnancy with precautions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role and safety of IR in pregnant patients.
• To discuss radiation exposure, medication choices, and physiological changes during pregnancy.
• To highlight IR's minimally invasive treatments for various obstetric and gynecologic conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of radiation effects and guidelines.
• Discussion of physiological changes in pregnancy.
• Description of IR procedures applicable to pregnant, peripartum, and postpartum patients.

Main Results:

• Most standard IR procedures can be safely performed in pregnant patients.
• IR offers alternatives to surgery, preserving fertility and saving lives.
• IR addresses conditions like venous access, biopsies, genitourinary/biliary issues, VTE, ectopic pregnancy, aneurysms, trauma, and postpartum hemorrhage.

Conclusions:

• Interventional radiology is a vital tool in managing pregnant patients.
• IR provides minimally invasive, safe, and effective treatment options throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
• Careful consideration of radiation and medications is essential for optimal patient outcomes.