Imaging of Pregnant and Lactating Patients: Part 2, Evidence-Based Review and Recommendations

AJR:198, April 2012

Page I.Wang Suzanne T. Chong Ania Z. Kielar Aine M. Kelly Ursula D. Knoepp Michael B. Mazza Mitchell M. Goodsitt

OBJECTIVE.The objectives of this article are to discuss the current evidence-based rec­ommendations regarding the use of diagnostic imaging in the evaluation of pulmonary embo­lism, appendicitis, urolithiasis, and cholelithiasis during pregnancy.

CONCLUSION. Diagnostic imaging should be performed during pregnancy only with an understanding of the maternal and fetal risks and benefits, the comparative advantages of dif­ferent modalities, and the unique anatomic and physiologic issues associated with pregnancy.