Original Article Risk of Ionizing Radiation in Women of Childbearing Age undergoing Radiofrequency Ablation

Background: The International Commission of Radiology recommends a pregnancy screening test to all female patients of childbearing age who will undergo a radiological study. Radiation is known to be teratogenic and its effect is cumulative. The teratogenic potential starts at doses close to those used during these procedures. The prevalence of positive pregnancy tests in patients undergoing electrophysiological studies and/or catheter ablation in our midst is unknown. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of positive pregnancy tests in female patients referred for electrophysiological study and/or radiofrequency ablation. Methods: Cross-sectional study analyzing 2,966 patients undergoing electrophysiological study and/or catheter ablation