A performance horse’s ability to perform can be drastically affected due to any cardiac concerns. Atrial fibrillation is the most common cause for cardiac difficulty. Commonly, the heart rate is normal and the veterinarian can detect this alteration while auscultating the patient, due to the abnormal rhythm. This rhythm is characterized by showing as an irregular rhythm, as shown in the image below. Even if the ECG detects normal QRS waves, there will be an absence of P waves with flutter waves.
The diagnosis of this disease is done by a complete ECG in order to characterize existing heart disease or structural changes in the valves or chambers.
—
Now, with the Piavet System you always have the helping hand of a certified equine cardiologist to give you a second opinion. This is a comforting resource when working with a suspicious cardiac case.
Piavita has partnered with DiploVets to bring you immediate access to a team of board-certified veterinary specialists for second opinions and veterinary diagnosis tools! After completing an ECG recording, you’re able to request a full ECG report on any patient!
Want to receive a free report? Purchase a Piavet Starter Pack and have access to a free ECG report for a clinically significant cardiology patient!
Want to see what our equine ECG reports look like? Submit this form and we will send a sample equine ECG report to you via e-mail:
SOURCES:
McGurrin, K. (2015). The diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation in the horse. Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports, p.83.
Reef, V., Bonagura, J., Buhl, R., McGurrin, M., Schwarzwald, C., van Loon, G. and Young, L. (2014). Recommendations for Management of Equine Athletes with Cardiovascular Abnormalities. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
