Cardiovascular Imaging and Pregnancy

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has become increasingly prevalent in women of childbearing age in the western world. This has led to CVD now being the leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. In the modern era optimal cardiology care is dependent on cardiovascular imaging and this is especially so in the appropriate management of the pregnant woman with CVD. CVD imaging allows for accurate risk assessment before pregnancy and guides appropriate management during pregnancy. In this article we outline the hemodynamic and structural changes that occur in the cardiovascular system in pregnancy. We examine the role of echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and coronary angiography within the care of the pregnant patient and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each.