Answer to Question #509 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Q

My sister is 13 weeks pregnant and went into the emergency room (ER) with chest pains. The ER Doctor did a chest x ray as well as a test measuring her oxygen carbon level. This test resulted in the number 34. They felt a VQ scan was necessary to rule out a lung blood clot. My question is, what is the risk to the fetus for such a procedure? She is very scared as you can imagine and we are unclear of the actual risk to her unborn child.

A

Editor's note: It was recommended that this person try to find out the estimate of the dose to the fetus during the procedures and then to place a phone call to our radiation-in-pregnancy expert. We asked that she then summarize his advice so that we could post it to provide information for others in a similiar situation. Following is her response. Gen Roessler, Editor HPS Web Site "Thank you so much for referring me to [your radiation-in-pregnancy expert]. He is truly an amazing man and dedicated to his patients. He reassured me immensely. He gave me very important information, but for fear of misquoting, I will generalize what I heard. He said at these dosages there is no measurable risk. The embryo is completely developed, the heart has four chambers, the brain is closed at four weeks, the eye is closed. There is no anatomical defect. At very high doses is when defects occur, and this was not even close. I'm sure I have simpified it and have not been as accurate as he, so I hope his information is of use to you. My husband is an ophthalmologist attending a [major medical center]. He is a dedicated caring doctor, so it was very refreshing speaking to your expert and getting the opportunity to talk to such a wonderful person and doctor. As I'm sure you can tell I really enjoyed speaking with him. He will never know how much his wisdom helps others. Thank you for your referral."