Radiation Risks from Catheter Ablation and CT Scans

Issues Related to Radiation from Catheter Ablation for Arrhythmias

1.
Hello Doctor, when I was 19 years old, I underwent catheter ablation for arrhythmia (not 3D mapping).
The ablation procedure lasted about two and a half hours.
I'm concerned about the radiation exposure and whether it might increase my cancer risk, as I've read articles stating that individuals who have undergone catheterization have a tenfold increased risk of cancer.
Another article mentioned that a person undergoing ablation for 14 minutes could receive a radiation dose of 40 milligray.
I consulted a cardiologist, who reassured me that the radiation dose was not significant.
What is the actual radiation dose I might have received? If the radiation exposure is indeed high, what can I do now to reduce my future cancer risk, or is it not as serious as I think, and I'm just worrying unnecessarily? Thank you.
2.
Recently, my parents are scheduled for a full-body health check-up, and the doctor suggested adding a CT scan.
I found online that radiation is one of the risks, and there is also the possibility of misdiagnosis, which makes me anxious.
However, if they don't undergo the scan, could early-stage lung cancer or other cancers go undetected?

Azhong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/02

Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology

Hello,
1.
According to the data from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, the radiation dose for a 19-year-old male undergoing a single cardiac catheterization with ablation is approximately 15 millisieverts, with an additional cancer risk of about 0.2%.
The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) report 103 states that doses below 100 millisieverts (whether single or multiple exposures) do not cause clinically significant functional damage.
The use of radiation in the medical field is increasing, and to achieve diagnostic or therapeutic purposes while providing necessary information for physicians, it is advisable to follow the doctor's instructions regarding radiation-related examinations or treatments, as the health benefits outweigh the effects of radiation.
If there are concerns, it is recommended to communicate with the physician before proceeding with the examination.
To reduce the risk of radiation harm to the body, minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure is key.
However, if examinations are necessary due to medical conditions, one can drink a glass of orange juice or take vitamin C, or consume a glass of milk before undergoing low-dose X-ray imaging to help prevent calcium loss, enhance immune function, and increase resistance to radiation, thereby minimizing the potential harm from radiation exposure.
2.
Regarding health examinations, if the radiation dose for a low-dose lung CT scan is below 2 millisieverts, the additional cancer risk from this radiation examination is approximately 0.02%.
Since there are many components to a comprehensive health check-up, it is advisable to discuss with your physician before selecting the appropriate examinations for yourself.
Wishing you and your family good health and safety.

Reply Date: 2020/04/02

More Info

When it comes to understanding the radiation risks associated with catheter ablation and CT scans, it's essential to consider both the potential benefits and the risks involved.
1. Radiation Exposure from Catheter Ablation:
Catheter ablation is a procedure used to treat arrhythmias, and it often involves fluoroscopy, which uses X-rays to visualize the heart and guide the catheter. The duration of the procedure can significantly influence the amount of radiation exposure. While the exact dose can vary based on multiple factors, including the complexity of the procedure and the specific techniques used, studies suggest that the radiation dose from catheter ablation can range from a few hundred to several thousand microsieverts (µSv).
To put this into perspective, a typical chest X-ray exposes a person to about 0.1 mSv, while a single CT scan can expose a person to 10 mSv or more. Some estimates suggest that a two-and-a-half-hour catheter ablation could result in an effective dose of approximately 30-50 mSv, depending on the specifics of the procedure.
Regarding cancer risk, the lifetime risk of developing cancer from radiation exposure is generally considered low, especially at doses below 100 mSv. The claim that catheter ablation increases cancer risk by tenfold may stem from studies that do not account for other risk factors, such as genetic predisposition or lifestyle choices. It’s important to remember that while there is a theoretical increase in risk, the absolute risk remains low for most individuals.
If you are concerned about your radiation exposure from the procedure, there are a few strategies you can consider to mitigate future risks:
- Discuss with Your Doctor: Always communicate your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

- Regular Monitoring: If you have a history of procedures involving radiation, regular check-ups can help monitor your health and catch any potential issues early.

- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, can help reduce your overall cancer risk.

2. CT Scans for Health Checks:
When it comes to CT scans, they are indeed valuable diagnostic tools that can help detect conditions like lung cancer at an early stage. However, they do come with radiation exposure risks. The decision to include a CT scan in a health check should be based on a careful assessment of the potential benefits versus the risks.
- Risk of Misdiagnosis: While CT scans can provide detailed images, there is a possibility of false positives, which can lead to unnecessary anxiety and further invasive testing. This is a valid concern and should be discussed with the physician.

- Balancing Risks and Benefits: The key is to weigh the likelihood of finding a significant health issue against the risks associated with radiation exposure. For individuals at high risk for certain cancers (like lung cancer), the benefits of early detection may outweigh the risks of radiation exposure.

In conclusion, while both catheter ablation and CT scans involve radiation exposure, the associated risks must be balanced with the potential benefits of these procedures. It is crucial to have open discussions with your healthcare providers about your concerns and to make informed decisions based on your health needs and risks. Regular health checks and a proactive approach to your health can help mitigate risks while ensuring that you receive necessary medical care.

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