Michael G Fradley
University of South Orlando, USA
Posters-Accepted Abstracts: J Med Diagn Meth
Although cancer and cardiovascular disease remain the two most common causes of mortality in the United States, improved diagnostic and treatment modalities have improved life expectancy dramatically. Patients are being diagnosed with cancer later in life and frequently have cardiovascular comorbidities. A proportion of these patients will present with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) such as pacemakers or defibrillators prior to starting cancer treatments. For those patients with a preexisting CIED who are receiving chest radiations or surgical procedures such as mastectomy, unique complications may occur. Radiation may cause electromagnetic interference which can lead to over sensing, loss of pacing or inappropriate shocks. It can also lead device resets and even device failure. In certain circumstances, it is necessary to consider relocation of the device in order to deliver appropriate radiation therapy or minimize surgical complications. Additionally, some patients may require a CIED as a result of exposure to certain chemotherapeutics and or radiation. Although implantation in these patients is based on standard indications, oncology patients can pose unique challenges compared to other patient populations. It is essential that oncologists work closely with cardiologists and electrophysiologists to ensure that cancer patients with CIEDs receive appropriate care for their malignancy while ensuring safety to the patient and minimizing impact to the device.
Email: mfradley@health.usf.edu
