Cardiovascular imaging and diagnostic procedures in pregnancy.

Diagnostic imaging procedures, including echocardiography, chest radiography, angiography, CT, and cardiovascular MRI, may be indicated in pregnant patients. Concerns related to the safety of these tests must be balanced against the importance of accurate diagnosis and assessment of a pathologic state. Such a calculation requires an understanding of the normal physiology of pregnancy, manifestations of pre-existing cardiac disease in pregnant women, and signs and symptoms of nascent cardiovascular disease. Additionally cardiologists must understand indications for and limitations of each diagnostic imaging test, potential harmful effects of various modalities, and precautions that must be taken to protect the fetus.