Is radiotherapy risky for mechanical heart valve patients?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am worried about my upcoming radiation treatment for stage 2 breast cancer. I had a mechanical heart valve placed three years ago after rheumatic fever. My oncologist says radiation is a must, but I am scared about the effects on my valve. I have been reading stuff online and getting anxious. Some websites say radiation can damage the valve material.
I am already taking blood thinners and do not want more complications. My cardiologist is not giving clear answers. Can you tell me if it is safe to proceed? My family depends on me, and I cannot risk my heart. What is the worst that could happen? Maybe there is some special way to do radiation that protects the heart?
Please help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
We know from therapy protocols that radiation can cause injury over a long period to the heart structures, including valves. With this knowledge, most cancer treatment protocols now shield the heart and artificial valves from the direct line of radiation. This has significantly reduced the incidence of radiation-induced heart injury.
Nonetheless, it is extremely important to voice your concerns and share all pertinent information about your heart operation with your healthcare team providing radiation treatment. With modern technology and modification of treatment protocols, your heart can be safely protected from the intended target of radiation and still deliver effective therapy to combat your cancer.
Hold your breath in a certain way - deep inspiration breath hold - to shift the heart away from the breast during the short bursts of radiation.
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Probable causes: Harmful effect of radiotherapy on a replaced heart valve.
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Treatment plan: Shield the heart away from the line of radiation and perform a deep inspiration breath hold.
I hope this helps.
Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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