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Dufourni A, Buschmann E, Vernemmen I, Van Steenkiste G, van Loon G, Decloedt A. Effect of physiological and pharmacological stress on heart rate, blood pressure, and echocardiographic measurements in healthy Warmblood horses. J Vet Intern Med 2024; 38:398-410. [PMID: 38174810 PMCID: PMC10800213 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Echocardiographic measurements are important prognostic indicators but might be influenced by heart rate and blood pressure. This is particularly important when comparing repeated examinations. HYPOTHESIS To determine the effect of physiological stress at mildly increased heart rates and pharmacological challenge using IV administration of N-butylscopolammonium bromide and metamizol sodium on heart rate, blood pressure, and echocardiographic measurements. ANIMALS Twenty healthy Warmblood horses. METHODS Randomized crossover study. Horses were examined echocardiographically by 2-dimensional, M-mode, pulsed wave (PW) Doppler, and PW tissue Doppler imaging with simultaneous ECG recording and noninvasive blood pressure measurements during rest, physiological stress, and pharmacological challenge. Cardiac dimensions and functions were measured by a blinded observer. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance. RESULTS Mean heart rate and arterial blood pressure were significantly higher during physiological stress (46 ± 2 bpm, 93 ± 16 mm Hg) and pharmacological challenge (62 ± 13 bpm, 107 ± 17 mm Hg) compared with rest (34 ± 3 bpm, 86 ± 12 mm Hg; P < .05). Compared with rest, physiological stress resulted in increased left atrial fractional area change (34.3 ± 7.5 vs 27.3 ± 5.1%; P = .01) and left ventricular late diastolic radial wall motion velocity (13 ± 3 vs 10 ± 2 cm/s; P = .01) but had no significant effect on most other echocardiographic variables. Compared with rest, pharmacological challenge led to significantly decreased left atrial and diastolic ventricular dimensions (left ventricular internal diameter: 10.3 ± 0.9 vs 10.7 ± 0.8 cm; P = .01), increased aortic and pulmonary diameters, and ventricular wall thickness. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Physiological stress at mildly increased heart rates significantly enhanced atrial pump function. Larger heart rate and blood pressure increases during pharmacological challenge resulted in altered cardiac dimensions. This should be taken into account when evaluating echocardiographic measurements at increased heart rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Dufourni
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Eva Buschmann
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Ingrid Vernemmen
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Glenn Van Steenkiste
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Gunther van Loon
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Annelies Decloedt
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
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Vernemmen I, Paulussen E, Dauvillier J, Decloedt A, van Loon G. Three‐dimensional and catheter‐based intracardiac echocardiographic characterization of the interatrial septum in 2 horses with suspicion of a patent foramen ovale. J Vet Intern Med 2022; 36:1535-1542. [PMID: 35635303 PMCID: PMC9308446 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This case report describes the 2‐dimensional transthoracic (2D‐TTE), 3‐dimensional transthoracic (3D‐TTE) and intracardiac echocardiographic (ICE) characterization of the fossa ovalis region in 2 horses. The first case was presented for poor performance and showed an anechoic zone in the interatrial septum on 2D‐TTE. Based on 3D‐TTE a deepened fossa ovalis could be identified and using ICE the presence of an interatrial shunt could be excluded. The second case was referred for a cardiac murmur and the presence of turbulent flow in and around the interatrial septum on 2D‐TTE color flow Doppler. The complementary use of 2D‐TTE, 3D‐TTE, and ICE allowed detailed characterization of a patent foramen ovale, with evidence of a left‐to‐right shunt in a dorsocranial to ventrocaudal direction with limited hemodynamic implications. These 2 cases underline the feasibility of 3D‐TTE and ICE in horses and especially show the added value of ICE in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Vernemmen
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Ghent Belgium
| | - Ellen Paulussen
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Ghent Belgium
| | - Julie Dauvillier
- Vet Inside, Equine Internal and Sports Medicine Referral Practice Sainte‐Terre France
| | - Annelies Decloedt
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Ghent Belgium
| | - Gunther van Loon
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Ghent Belgium
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Vernemmen I, Van Steenkiste G, Dufourni A, Decloedt A, van Loon G. Transvenous electrical cardioversion of atrial fibrillation in horses: Horse and procedural factors correlated with success and recurrence. J Vet Intern Med 2022; 36:758-769. [PMID: 35246994 PMCID: PMC8965264 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transvenous electrical cardioversion (TVEC) is 1 of the main treatment options for atrial fibrillation (AF) in horses. Large‐scale studies on factors affecting success and prognosis have primarily been performed in Standardbred populations. Hypothesis/Objectives To determine factors affecting cardioversion success, cardioversion difficulty and recurrence in a predominant Warmblood study sample. Animals TVEC records of 199 horses. Methods Retrospective study of TVEC procedures of horses admitted for AF without severe echocardiographic abnormalities. Horse and procedural factors for success and cumulative amount of energy (≤ 600 J vs > 600 J) were determined using multivariable logistic regression. A survival analysis was performed to determine risk factors for recurrence. Results Two hundred and thirty‐one TVEC procedures were included, with a 94.4% success rate and 31.9% recurrence rate (51/160). Mitral regurgitation (OR 0.151, 95% CI 0.032‐0.715, P = .02) and AF cycle length (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01‐1.09, P = .02) were independent determinants for success. Catheter type (OR 0.154, 95% CI 0.074‐0.322, P < .001), previous AF episode (OR 3.10, 95% CI 1.20‐8.01, P = .02), tricuspid regurgitation (OR 2.54, 95% CI 1.25‐5.13, P = .01), and body weight (OR 1.009, 95% CI 1.003‐1.015, P = .004) were significantly correlated with cumulative amount of energy delivered. Significant risk factors for recurrence after a first AF episode were sex (stallion; HR 3.05, 95% CI 1.34‐6.95, P = .008), mitral regurgitation (HR 1.91, 95% CI 1.08‐3.38, P = .03), and AF duration (HR 1.001, 95% CI 1.0001‐1.0026, P = .04). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Both horse and procedural factors should be considered when assessing treatment options and prognosis in horses with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Vernemmen
- Equine Cardioteam, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Glenn Van Steenkiste
- Equine Cardioteam, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Alexander Dufourni
- Equine Cardioteam, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Annelies Decloedt
- Equine Cardioteam, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Gunther van Loon
- Equine Cardioteam, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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Eberhardt C, Schwarzwald CC. Quantification of left atrial contractile function using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in horses after conversion of atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm. J Vet Cardiol 2021; 35:108-120. [PMID: 33940552 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvc.2021.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES In horses, persistent atrial dysfunction is a prognostic indicator of recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF). The objective of this study was to quantify left atrial (LA) contractile function in Warmblood horses after successful cardioversion of AF to sinus rhythm, using standard two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) and two-dimensional speckle tracking (2DST) analyses, and to provide proof-of-concept for use of 2DST to detect LA contractile dysfunction in horses. ANIMALS, MATERIALS, AND METHODS Nineteen Warmblood horses with AF and successful transvenous electrical cardioversion (TVEC) or medical cardioversion using quinidine sulfate (QS) were included. Echocardiography was performed at 24 hr, 72 hr, and 1-6 months after cardioversion. Conventional 2DE-derived indices of LA size and function and global longitudinal strain (SL) and longitudinal strain rate (SRL) during LA contractile function were measured to detect differences in LA size and function over time and between treatment modalities. The association between 2DE-derived indices and global SL and SRL, respectively, and the agreement of the variables to detect LA dysfunction were assessed. RESULTS Global SL and SRL, as well as active LA fractional area change (FAC) identified cases with LA dysfunction after TVEC and QS cardioversion and proved useful to demonstrate LA functional recovery over time. Agreement between active LA FAC and SL and SRL, respectively, to diagnose atrial dysfunction was substantial to fair at 24 hr after cardioversion and decreased with time. CONCLUSION This study shows that 2DST is useful to quantify LA contractile dysfunction in horses after cardioversion of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Eberhardt
- University of Zurich, Vetsuisse Faculty, Equine Department, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - C C Schwarzwald
- University of Zurich, Vetsuisse Faculty, Equine Department, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
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Vernemmen I, Vera L, Van Steenkiste G, van Loon G, Decloedt A. Reference values for 2-dimensional and M-mode echocardiography in Friesian and Warmblood horses. J Vet Intern Med 2020; 34:2701-2709. [PMID: 33098342 PMCID: PMC7694853 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Echocardiographic reference intervals for Friesian horses are poorly described. OBJECTIVES To obtain reference intervals for echocardiographic measurements in Friesians and compare these with Warmbloods. ANIMALS One hundred healthy adult Friesians and 100 healthy adult Warmblood horses. METHODS Cross-sectional study. Two-dimensional and M-mode echocardiographic images were obtained. Echocardiographic measurements, including size, area, and volumetric measurements of left atrium, left and right ventricle, aorta, and pulmonary artery, were performed. Measurements were compared between the 2 breeds using an independent samples t test with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. RESULTS Reference ranges for standard echocardiographic measurements in Friesians were obtained. Several left ventricular measurements were significantly smaller in Friesians compared to Warmbloods, such as the left ventricular end-diastolic volume using the 4-chamber modified Simpsons' method (99.85% confidence interval for the difference [CI] = -245 to -63). Also the right ventricular end-diastolic and peak-systolic internal diameter were smaller in Friesians (99.85% CI = -1.33 to -0.6 and 99.85% CI = -1.54 to -0.76, respectively). Fractional shortening (99.85% CI = 0.61-6) and ejection fraction (99.85% CI = 0.21-4.6) were significantly larger. No structural effects of systemic hypertension, such as concentric hypertrophy, were detected. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Our study provides reference intervals for echocardiographic measurements in Friesians useful in a clinical setting. In general, the left ventricular dimensions in Friesians were significantly smaller compared to Warmbloods, emphasizing the need for breed-specific reference intervals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Vernemmen
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Lisse Vera
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Glenn Van Steenkiste
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Gunther van Loon
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Annelies Decloedt
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent University, Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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Silva‐Meirelles JR, Meirelles GP, Castro ML, Souto APF, Brüler BC, Vilani R, Guedes RL, Gonçalves Sousa M, Dornbusch PT. Thoracoscopic pericardiectomy: A feasibility study and impact on cardiac volumetry in healthy horses. EQUINE VET EDUC 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - B. C. Brüler
- Department of Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Paraná CuritibaBrazil
| | - R. Vilani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Paraná CuritibaBrazil
| | | | - M. Gonçalves Sousa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Paraná CuritibaBrazil
| | - P. T. Dornbusch
- Department of Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Paraná CuritibaBrazil
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Quantification of left atrial wall motion in healthy horses using two-dimensional speckle tracking. J Vet Cardiol 2020; 30:32-43. [PMID: 32645687 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvc.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The mechanical function of the left atrium (LA) plays a pivotal role in modulation of left ventricular filling. Assessment of LA function might be a clinically useful prognostic tool for horses with mitral regurgitation or atrial fibrillation. However, the most accurate, reliable, and clinically useful methods to assess LA myocardial function are yet to be determined. The objective of this study was to describe the methods for quantification of LA wall motion using two-dimensional speckle tracking (2DST) echocardiography in healthy Warmblood horses to quantify measurement variability, to calculate reference intervals for 2DST variables, and to investigate their relationship to sex, age, body weight, and heart rate. ANIMALS, MATERIALS, AND METHODS Twenty-six healthy Warmblood horses were included. 2DST analyses of LA wall motion were performed on digitally stored cine-loop recordings of a standardized right-parasternal four-chamber view focusing on the LA. Longitudinal strain, longitudinal strain rate, and time to peak LA contraction were measured to characterize LA contractile, reservoir, and conduit function. Intraobserver and interobserver measurement variability was quantified, and reference intervals were calculated. RESULTS The coefficient of variation for intraobserver and interobserver measurement variability ranged between 2.0-11.1% and 5.1-15.4%, respectively, for global strain, strain rate, and time to peak LA contraction. Reference intervals for healthy Warmblood horses were reported. CONCLUSION This study shows that 2DST is a feasible and reliable method to quantify LA wall motion throughout the cardiac cycle in healthy Warmblood horses. Further studies are required to establish the clinical value of 2DST for assessment of LA function.
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Gy C, Leclere M, Bélanger MC, Allano M, Beauchamp G, Lavoie JP. Acute, subacute and chronic sequelae of horses accidentally exposed to monensin-contaminated feed. Equine Vet J 2020; 52:848-856. [PMID: 32145094 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monensin is highly toxic to horses and inadvertent ingestion can result in cardiac injury and death. OBJECTIVES To describe sequelae of monensin ingestion and to determine clinical predictors of outcome. STUDY DESIGN Observational clinical study. METHODS Physical examination, electrocardiogram and echocardiography were performed on 76 horses accidentally exposed to monensin-contaminated feed. Four horses were examined within 14 days of exposure (acute period), 29 horses were examined between 15 and 45 days post-exposure (subacute period) and 70 horses were examined 4-10 months after exposure (chronic period). Follow-up information was obtained for 56 horses by telephone interviews approximately 16 months after exposure. RESULTS Cardiac abnormalities were detected in 4/4, 19/29 and 31/70 horses during the acute, subacute and chronic periods, respectively. Sixteen months post-exposure, 34 of the 64 horses (53%) for which the outcome was known had returned to their previous use, 13 (20%) were reported to be exercise intolerant, three (5%) were retired and 14 (22%) were dead (two deaths, 12 euthanasia). Thinning of the myocardium observed at any point in time was associated with a negative outcome. Heterogeneity of the myocardium observed in the acute/subacute period was associated with a negative outcome while subjective contractile intraventricular dyssynchrony, cardiac chamber dilation, decreased fractional shortening and multiple premature ventricular complexes observed in the chronic period were associated with a negative outcome. Some horses with significant changes associated with a negative outcome in the chronic phase still returned to their previous work. MAIN LIMITATIONS No control group and only 27 horses were examined more than once. CONCLUSIONS Clinical outcome of horses exposed to sublethal doses of monensin is highly variable. The presence of heterogeneity and thinning of the myocardium shortly after intoxication were associated with a negative outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémentine Gy
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mathilde Leclere
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Bélanger
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marion Allano
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Guy Beauchamp
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Pierre Lavoie
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
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Gehlen H, Schlaga A. Echocardiographic Evaluation of Myocardial Function in Standardbreds During the First Year of Race Training. J Equine Vet Sci 2019; 80:40-48. [PMID: 31443832 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have shown the effect of training on myocardial deformation parameters in human athletes. The aim of this prospective, longitudinal study was echocardiographic evaluation of myocardial velocities and deformation in horses during the first year of training. Twelve Standardbred yearlings were examined using tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and two-dimensional speckle tracking (2D-ST) during the first year of race training (short axis of left and right ventricle). The first examination was performed before the beginning of training (n = 12). At the last time point, horses were fully trained and had participated in their first races (n = 10). Radial myocardial velocities were evaluated using color (c-) and pulsed-wave (PW-)TDI in the left ventricular free wall, the interventricular septum (IVS) and the right ventricular free wall from a right parasternal short-axis image. Strain and strain rate were evaluated using 2D-ST in the LW and IVS using offline analysis of the 2D grayscale images. The radial, systolic myocardial velocities in the left ventricle (LVFW) increased significantly over the year in both c- and PW-TDI. In addition, the early diastolic velocity in the LW (in cTDI) and IVS (in c- and PW-TDI) and the systolic velocity in the IVS (in cTDI) increased significantly. The 2D-ST revealed significant increases of the radial systolic and early diastolic strain rate in the IVS and of the late diastolic strain rate in the LW. Training and aging/growing had both an impact on echocardiography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidrun Gehlen
- Equine Clinic, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Amelie Schlaga
- Equine Clinic, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Abstract
This article provides an overview on the principles of transthoracic echocardiography in horses. Indications for echocardiography, equipment, and technical considerations are discussed and a systematic approach for a complete echocardiographic examination in horses is described. Methods for assessment of chamber dimensions, allometric scaling of measurements, assessment of systolic and diastolic ventricular function, assessment of atrial function, hemodynamic assessment, and evaluation of valvular regurgitation are explained, focusing on traditional 2-dimensional (2D), motion-mode, and Doppler echocardiographic methods. Selected applications of newer echocardiographic methods, such as tissue Doppler imaging and 2D speckle tracking are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin C Schwarzwald
- Clinic for Equine Internal Medicine, Equine Department, Swiss Equine Cardiology Consulting, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich 8057, Switzerland.
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Siwinska N, Michalek M, Zak A, Slowikowska M, Noszczyk-Nowak A, Niedzwiedz A, Paslawska U. Two-dimensional echocardiographic measurements of the right coronary artery in healthy horses - a pilot study. BMC Vet Res 2019; 15:43. [PMID: 30691453 PMCID: PMC6348654 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-019-1792-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Precise understanding of the dimensions of the vascular lumina is essential for accurate interpretation of cardiac vessels imaging. To the authors’ best knowledge, this is the first study focusing on the ultrasound measurement of the right coronary artery (RCA) in the horse. The aim of this study was to determine both the ultrasonographic range of the normal diameter and lumen area of the RCA in horses and the influence of gender, age and level of training on the RCA dimensions. An additional aim of the study was to assess intra- and inter-observer repeatability of the collected measurements. Methods Thirty-six privately owned, healthy horses were included in the study. The internal lumen diameter and the area of the RCA were measured in the right parasternal long axis view in the 3rd intercostal space during systole and diastole. The results were compared between groups using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Student’s t-test. The correlation between the physiological parameters and the RCA was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient. Student’s t-test was used to compare the results obtained by two researchers and from two scanners. Results The mean diameter of the RCA was 13.1 ± 1.5 mm in systole and 11.5 ± 1.3 mm in diastole, and the mean area was 1.3 ± 0.2 cm2 and 1.1 ± 0.2 cm2, respectively. There were no statistically significant measurement differences between geldings and mares. A positive correlation between body weight and RCA dimensions as well as height and RCA dimensions were seen. There was a negative correlation between the age and the RCA area. A statistically significant difference in the RCA area was seen between race and retired horses. Intra- and inter-observer agreement was strong with a few statistically significant differences. Conclusions The age, size, and level of training may affect the ultrasound measurement of the RCA in horses. Non-invasive transthoracic echocardiography may be used to assess the size of the right coronary vessel in various types of horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Siwinska
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, C.K. Norwida 25, 50-375, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Marcin Michalek
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, C.K. Norwida 25, 50-375, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Zak
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, C.K. Norwida 25, 50-375, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Malwina Slowikowska
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, C.K. Norwida 25, 50-375, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Noszczyk-Nowak
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, C.K. Norwida 25, 50-375, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Artur Niedzwiedz
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, C.K. Norwida 25, 50-375, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Urszula Paslawska
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, C.K. Norwida 25, 50-375, Wroclaw, Poland
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Gehlen H, Bildheim LM. Evaluation of age-dependent changes of myocardial velocity using pulsed wave and colour tissue Doppler imaging in adult warmblood horses. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2018; 102:1731-1742. [DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Heidrun Gehlen
- Equine Clinic; Free University of Berlin; Berlin Germany
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Wijnberg I, Franklin S. The heart remains the core: cardiac causes of poor performance in horses compared to human athletes. COMPARATIVE EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.3920/cep170012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac remodelling occurs in response to exercise and is generally beneficial for athletic performance due to the increase in cardiac output. However, this remodelling also may lead to an increased prevalence of cardiac murmurs and arrhythmias. In most cases, these are not considered to be significant. However, in some cases, there may be potentially deleterious consequences. Whilst sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a rare occurrence, the consequences are catastrophic for both the horse and potentially the rider or driver. Furthermore, the sudden death of a horse in the public arena has negative connotations in regards to public perception of welfare during equestrian sports. Prediction of which individuals might be susceptible to potential deleterious effects of exercise is a focus of interest in both human and equine athletes but remains a challenge because many athletes experience cardiac murmurs and exercise-induced arrhythmias that are clinically irrelevant. This review summarises the effects of exercise on cardiac remodelling in the horse and the potential effects on athletic performance and SCD. The use of biomarkers and their future potential in the management of athletic horses is also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- I.D. Wijnberg
- Department of Equine Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 114, 3584 CM, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - S.H. Franklin
- Equine Health and Performance Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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14
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Right ventricular function during pharmacological and exercise stress testing in horses. Vet J 2017; 227:8-14. [PMID: 29031332 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The disproportionate rise of pulmonary artery pressure compared to systemic blood pressure during exercise can lead to detrimental right ventricular remodelling in endurance athletes. Horses may act as an extreme model of these athletic cardiovascular adaptations, as they show a three fold increase in pulmonary pressures during exercise. Right ventricular function was examined in ten healthy horses using post-exercise and pharmacological stress echocardiography in a randomised cross-over design. Exercise testing was performed on a treadmill while pharmacological testing was performed using an atropine-dobutamine infusion. Heart rate, systemic blood pressure and cardiac output during echocardiography were similar post-exercise compared to maximal pharmacological stress. Systolic pulmonary artery pressure was significantly higher during the exercise test (121±15mmHg) and during immediate post-exercise echocardiography (93±10mmHg) compared to maximal pharmacological stress (69±12mmHg). Right ventricular diameters as well as the ratio of systolic right to left ventricular area were higher post-exercise. Right ventricular fractional area change was significantly decreased post-exercise (40.5±6.2%) compared to a significant increase during pharmacological stress echocardiography (72.6±7.3%). Serum cardiac troponin I concentration was significantly higher 2h after the pharmacological test compared to baseline values and post-exercise, although the highest value was found post-exercise in the horse with the highest systolic pulmonary artery pressure and lowest right ventricular fractional area change. Pharmacological stress testing is not recommended in further studies on right ventricular adaptations in athletic horses, as this does not reproduce the effects of exercise.
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15
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Decloedt A, Borowicz H, Slowikowska M, Chiers K, van Loon G, Niedzwiedz A. Right ventricular function during acute exacerbation of severe equine asthma. Equine Vet J 2017; 49:603-608. [PMID: 28132404 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary hypertension has been described in horses with severe equine asthma, but its effect on the right ventricle has not been fully elucidated. OBJECTIVES To evaluate right ventricular structure and function after a 1-week period of pulmonary hypertension secondary to acute exacerbation of severe equine asthma. STUDY DESIGN Prospective study. METHODS A clinical episode of severe equine asthma was induced experimentally in six susceptible horses. Examinations in remission and on day 7 of the clinical episode included a physical examination with clinical scoring, echocardiography, arterial blood gas measurements, venous blood sampling for cardiac biomarkers, intracardiac pressure measurements, right ventricular and right atrial myocardial biopsies, airway endoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage. After 1 month of recovery, physical examination, echocardiography and cardiac biomarker analysis were repeated. Echocardiographic and pressure measurements were compared with those in 10 healthy control horses. RESULTS All horses developed clinical signs of acute pulmonary obstruction. Right heart pressures increased significantly. Altered right ventricular function could be detected by tissue Doppler and speckle tracking echocardiography. Cardiac troponin concentrations did not increase significantly, but were highly elevated in one horse which exercised in the paddock prior to sampling. Focal neutrophil infiltration was present in two myocardial samples. Even in remission, asthmatic horses showed a thicker right ventricular wall, an increased left ventricular end-systolic eccentricity index at chordal level and decreased right ventricular longitudinal strain compared with controls. MAIN LIMITATIONS The induced clinical episode was rather mild and the number of horses was limited because of the invasive nature of the study. CONCLUSIONS Pulmonary obstruction in asthmatic horses induces pulmonary hypertension with right ventricular structural and functional changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Decloedt
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - H Borowicz
- Department of Internal Diseases and Clinic for Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - M Slowikowska
- Department of Internal Diseases and Clinic for Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - K Chiers
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - G van Loon
- Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - A Niedzwiedz
- Department of Internal Diseases and Clinic for Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
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