Pregnancy-Related Cardiovascular Diseases: A Radiological Overview

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Cardiology
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality during pregnancy and postpartum.
• Pregnancy involves significant hemodynamic changes, increasing cardiovascular risk.
• Diagnosing and managing CVDs in pregnant women requires careful consideration of both maternal and fetal well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of cardiovascular imaging in assessing CVDs during pregnancy.
• To highlight strategies for minimizing risks associated with imaging techniques.
• To enhance radiologist awareness regarding safe imaging practices in pregnant patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of cardiovascular imaging techniques, focusing on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Discussion of strategies to reduce radiation exposure and contrast agent use, adhering to the ALARA principle.
• Evaluation of imaging's contribution to diagnosing common pregnancy-related CVDs.

Main Results:

• Cardiovascular imaging provides essential insights into significant pregnancy-related CVDs.
• CT and MRI are valuable tools for assessing maternal cardiovascular health during pregnancy.
• Risk mitigation strategies are crucial for safe diagnostic imaging in pregnant populations.

Conclusions:

• Cardiovascular imaging is pivotal in managing CVDs in pregnant women.
• Minimizing radiation and contrast agent exposure is essential for fetal and maternal safety.
• Radiologists must be aware of and apply risk-reduction strategies in obstetric imaging.