@judydarlene To protect a pacemaker from radiation in the same left breast, the following measures are typically taken:
Surgical relocation: In some cases, especially for breast cancer patients, the pacemaker may need to be surgically relocated to the opposite side of the body before radiation therapy. This is to avoid direct or scatter radiation that could cause malfunction of the device.
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Monitoring: A nurse or trained radiographer may monitor the pacemaker during treatment to ensure it functions properly. This is usually done before, during, and after treatment if the pacemaker is directly in the radiotherapy field.
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Treatment planning: The radiation and cardiology teams will work closely together to create a treatment plan that is safe and will treat the cancer while managing its effects on the device. This includes planning the best way to deliver the treatment and considering factors like the type of device, dependence on the device, type of radiation therapy, maximum radiation dose, and location of treatment.
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Interrogation: Before, during, and after treatment, the implanted device may be interrogated to check its battery life, how the leads are working, and if there are any changes in the heart rate or rhythm. This is a painless test that takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
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It is essential to follow the treatment plan and consult with healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and functionality of the pacemaker during radiation therapy.