Minimizing radiological exposure to pregnant women from invasive procedures

This review brings together some of the technology and approaches that are evolving in the care of pregnancy-associated cardiovascular disease that can be leveraged to reduce x-ray exposure. When feasible, the choice of transradial arterial access to both the heart and upper extremity venous access to the central venous system represents one advancement that can help remove the pelvic region from the primary x-ray beam and reduce exposure to the fetus. In procedures that require femoral approaches, other techniques can be used to minimize the net exposure. Few physicians and medical centers can be expected to develop the patient experience in these relatively rare disorders. Shared knowledge with otherwise well-trained operators and care providers can improve the understanding and hopefully improve the outcomes, both maternal and fetal.