Diagnostic Cardiovascular Imaging and Therapeutic Strategies in Pregnancy

• Authors: Nanette Wenger, Emory University; Neal Dickert, Emory University; Leslee Shaw, Emory University; NA Bello, Columbia Univ Irving Med Ctr; CNB Merz, Cedars Sinai Smidt Heart Inst; H Brown, University of South Florida; MB Davis, University of Michigan; SC El Hajj, ProMed Phys Cardiol; C Giullian, HCA; O Quesada, Cedars Sinai Smidt Heart Inst; K Park, University of Florida; RM Sanghani, Rush University; AS Volgman, Rush University; D Williams, Washington Univ; CJ Pepine, University of Florida; KJ Lindley, Washington Univ
• Journal Title: JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF CARDIOLOGY
• Volume: Volume 77, Number 14
• Publisher: ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC | 2020-04-13, Pages 1813-1822
• Type of Work: Article
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2021.01.056
• Keywords: Science & Technology; Life Sciences & Biomedicine; Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems; Cardiovascular System & Cardiology; imaging; lactation; medication; pregnancy; cardio-obstetrics; APPROPRIATE USE CRITERIA; CONTRAST-MEDIA; HEART; GUIDELINES; HEALTH; SOCIETY; DISEASE

Abstract

The prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in pregnancy, both diagnosed and previously unknown, is rising, and CVD is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Historically, women of child-bearing potential have been underrepresented in research, leading to lasting knowledge gaps in the cardiovascular care of pregnant and lactating women. Despite these limitations, clinicians should be familiar with the safety of frequently used diagnostic and therapeutic interventions to adequately care for this at-risk population. This review, the fourth of a 5-part series, provides evidence-based recommendations regarding the use of common cardiovascular diagnostic tests and medications in pregnant and lactating women.