Exposure to Low-Dose Ionizing Radiation From Cardiac Procedures and Malignancy Risk in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

Abstract

To our knowledge, this is the first large population-based study to analyze and document the association between LDIR-related cardiac procedures and incident cancer in the population of adults with CHD. Confirmations of these findings by prospective studies are needed to reinforce policy recommendations for radiation surveillance in patients with CHD where no regulation currently exists. Physicians ordering and performing cardiac imaging should ensure that exposure is as low as reasonably achievable without sacrificing quality of care.

Diagnosis and Management of Noncardiac Complications in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

“…[329][330][331] Specifically, a positive correlation between exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation and incidence cancer risk has been demonstrated in adults with CHD. 332 Age at the time of radiation exposure is a critical determinant of cancer risk. Adults with CHD have often been exposed to studies using radiation in childhood.…”

Nonfluoroscopic Ablation in the Setting of Congenital Heart Disease

“…Radiation can have significant impacts on both the patients and staff involved in these procedures. [6][7][8] Primary operators must exercise good judgement and attempt conservative fluoroscopy use.…”

2019 APHRS expert consensus statement on three‐dimensional mapping systems for tachycardia developed in collaboration with HRS, EHRA, and LAHRS

“…Legislation about workers' radiation protection exist in virtually every country with monitoring of exposure mostly using passive dosimeters to estimate the risk. Correlation between professional exposure and developing malignancies has been reported as well as increased risk of malignancy for patients with high exposure rates . Acting according to the “ALARA” principle seems paramount and further emphasis should be given to “train” even experienced operators to use as little radiation as possible (for their own and their patients' fate).…”