Electrocardiographic evaluation of baby opossum (Didelphis albiventris) / Avaliação eletrocardiográfica de gambás bebê (Didelphis albiventris)

O eletrocardiograma (ECG) é um importante método diagnóstico, essencial para determinar o ritmo e o funcionamento elétrico do coração. Os gambás (D. albiventris) frequentemente são atendidos nos Centros de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (CETAS), contudo pouco se sabe sobre o sistema cardiovascular dessa espécie. Dessa forma, o objetivo foi estabelecer valores de referência dos parâmetros eletrocardiográficos dessa espécie. Foram utilizados 32 filhotes, considerados hígidos nos exames clínicos geral e específico. Avaliaram-se a frequência cardíaca, o ritmo, a morfologia, a amplitude e a duração das ondas P, o complexo QRS e T, a duração dos intervalos PR e QT e o segmento ST. A frequência cardíaca média foi de 214 batimentos por minuto (bpm), o ritmo sinusal mostrou-se normal e houve arritmia sinusal em 25% dos pacientes. O eixo médio foi de 40º(QRS)e 47º (P). A onda P apresentou morfologia positiva (81,3%) e negativa (18,7%), amplitude de 0,03mV (±0,01) e duração de 0,04s (±0,04). O complexo QRS apresentou morfologia QRS ou RS (31%) e duração de 0,05s (±0,06). A amplitude de Q foi de -0,04mV (±0,05), a de R foi 0,23mV (±0,16) e S -0,07mV (±0,08). Já a onda T apresentou morfologia variada, amplitude de 0,04mV (±0,04) e duração de 0,04s (±0,09). O intervalo PR obteve duração de 0,05s (±0,08), QT com intervalo entre 0,08 e 0,21 e o segmento ST médio de 0,05s (±0,02). Dessa forma, observou-se que foi possível realizar o ECG em gambás filhotes e que o sexo e o peso não influenciaram no traçado obtido. Os resultados diferiram de cães, gatos e de outras espécies de gambás.

Cardiovascular system of agouti (Dasyprocta prymnolopha)

Background: The species Dasyprocta prymnolopha is a wild rodent with a geographic distribution that extends from Mexico to South America, including Brazil. Agouti has been the subject of morphophysiological research, but data on the cardiovascular system remains limited. Therefore, the objective was to describe the macroscopic and microscopic morphology, including the study of the cardiac and coronary system syntopy of the species D. prymnolopha. Materials, Methods & Results: Twelve Dasyprocta primnolopha adults were used, 6 males and 6 females. Topographic analysis of the heart was evaluated in situ, with subsequent measurement, anatomovascular description and macroscopic study of cardiac and coronary vascularization. A microscopic investigation and identification of structural cardiac aspects were also carried out in adult agoutis, the biological samples of the heart were submitted to histological techniques and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin and Masson's Trichrome. The heart is located between the end of the 2nd and the beginning of the 5th intercostal space, with the apex reaching the 6th space. It presents the presence of 2 ligaments: phrenopericardium and sternopericardium. The right atrioventricular valve is composed of 2 cusps, the parietal and the septal, with variations within the same species for 3 cusps. Projections that interconnect the papillary muscles with each other were observed. In the left ventricle there are variations in the number of papillary muscles (range 2 to 4). In the region of the aortic valve, 5 ostia were observed in the left aortic sinus in all animals. The coronary circulation has a predominantly left distribution. Histologically, the heart consists of 3 main layers: endocardium, myocardium, and epicardium. The cusp valves of the atrioventricular openings are composed of endocardial folds that contain a central plate of dense connective tissue, and inserted in this cardiac musculature was observed the cardiac skeleton, with its fibrous ring consisting of collagen and elastic fibers that surrounds the atrioventricular opening. Discussion: Cardiac assessment in wild animals is challenging, as in-depth knowledge of the morphology of the cardiovascular system is required for the use of diagnostic tools. In this first anatomical study of the heart, this organ presents syntopy with those of other rodents, but the topography may vary in individuals of the same species, which may be related to the accentuated vertebral curve. The phrenopericardial and sternopericardial ligaments were observed in this research, although there are no reports in other species of Dasyprocta sp. The arrangement of the arteries has, as a particularity, the larger left atrium in relation to the heart/atrium size ratio when compared to other domestic species, covering the left coronary sinus until it reaches the left atrial surface. In the agouti, it was observed that the vascularization is left, with the left coronary artery giving rise to both the paraconal and subsinuous interventricular branch, a fact found in animals such as ruminants, dogs. In the histological observations of the present study, the heart was similar to that of other mammals. Our data reveal morphological characteristics similar to those of other mammals, but with very expressive characteristics that differ even within the species. It is important to generate new information to elucidate cardiac and coronary diagnostic analyses, which can be extended to different species.

Efeitos cardiorrespiratórios da dexmedetomidina isolada e associada à morfina na medicação pré-anestésica de cadelas submetidas à ovariohisterectomia eletiva / Cardiorespiratory effects of dexmedetomidine alone and associated to morphine as premedicants in healthy bitches undergoing ovariohisterectomy / Efectos cardiorespiratorios de la dexmedetomidina aislada y asociada con morfina sobre medicamentos pre-anestésicos de perras sometidas a ovariohisterectomía electiva

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos cardiorrespiratórios da dexmedetomidina isolada e associada à morfina em pacientes submetidas à anestesia geral inalatória com isoflurano e submetidas à ovariohisterectomia eletiva. Vinte cadelas saudáveis foram selecionadas a partir de exames físico e laboratoriais. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos: dexmedetomidina (10 µg/Kg) (GD) e dexmedetomidina (10 µg/Kg) associado com morfina 0,3 mg/Kg (GDM), administrados pela via intramuscular (IM). Ato contínuo, o paciente foi induzido com propofol (à efeito) e mantido com isoflurano diluído em oxigênio 100% e administrado através de vaporizador calibrado. Foram aferidos os parâmetros fisiológicos: frequências cardíaca (FC) e respiratória (f), temperatura corporal (T°C), pressões arteriais sistólica (PAS), diastólica (PAD) e média (PAM), saturação de oxigênio na hemoglobina (SpO2), pressão parcial de gás carbônico no final da expiração (ETCO2) e isoflurano expirado (ETISO). A hemogasometria arterial foi utilizada para a análise do potencial hidrogeniônico (pH), bicarbonato (HCO3-) e pressão parcial de dióxido de carbono (PaCO2). O procedimento cirúrgico teve duração máxima de 45 minutos. Os parâmetros demonstraram diferença estatística entre os tempos e grupos avaliados, de acordo com os testes de Tukey e Bonferroni (p<0,05). Observou-se bradicardia 30 minutos após a aplicação da medicação pré-anestésica e acidemia no período trans-anestésico. Apesar disto, tanto a dexmedetomidina isolada quanto associada, conferiram estabilidade hemodinâmica e respiratória, apesar da bradicardia e acidemia observada.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the cardiorespiratory effects of dexmedetomidine alone and associated with morphine. Twenty healthy dogs were selected from physical and laboratory exams. The animals were randomly distributed into two groups: 10 µg/Kg dexmedetomidine (DG) and 10 µg/Kg dexmedetomidine group associated with 0.3 mg/Kg morphine (GDM), administered intramuscularly (IM). The patients were induced with propofol (to effect) and maintained with isoflurane diluted in 100% oxygen and administered through a calibrated vaporizer. Physiological parameters were measured: heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (f), body temperature (T°C), systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP), oxygen saturation of hemoglobin (SpO2), end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure (ETCO2) and end-tidal isoflurane concentration (ETISO). Arterial blood gas analysis was used to analyze hydrogen potential (pH), bicarbonate (HCO3-) and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2). The surgical procedure lasted up to 45 minutes. The parameters showed a statistical difference between the times and groups evaluated, according to the Tukey and Bonferroni tests (p<0.05). Bradycardia was observed 30 minutes after the application of pre-anesthesic medication and acidemia in the trans-anesthetic period. Despite this, both dexmedetomidine alone and associated, provided good hemodynamic and respiratory stability, despite the bradycardia and acidemia observed.(AU)

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar los efectos cardiorrespiratorios de la dexmedetomidina sola y asociada con la morfina en pacientes sometidas a anestesia general por inhalación con isoflurano y sometidas a ovariohisterectomía electiva. Se seleccionaron veinte perras sanas a partir de exámenes físicos y de laboratorio. Los animales se dividieron aleatoriamente en dos grupos: dexmedetomidina (10 µg/kg) (GD) y dexmedetomidina (10 µg/kg) asociada con 0,3 mg/kg de morfina (GDM), administrada por vía intramuscular (IM). Posteriormente, el paciente fue inducido con propofol (en efecto) y mantenido con isoflurano diluido en oxígeno al 100% y administrado mediante de un vaporizador calibrado. Se midieron parámetros fisiológicos: frecuencia cardíaca (FC) y respiratoria (f), temperatura corporal (T°C), presión arterial sistólica (PAS), diastólica (PAD) y media (PAM), saturación de oxígeno de hemoglobina (SpO2), presión parcial de carbono dióxido al final de la expiración (ETCO2) e isoflurano expirado (ETISO). Se utilizó gasometría arterial para analizar el potencial de hidrógeno (pH), el bicarbonato (HCO3-) y la presión parcial de dióxido de carbono (PaCO2). El procedimiento quirúrgico tuvo una duración máxima de 45 minutos. Los parámetros mostraron diferencia estadística entre los tiempos y grupos evaluados, según las pruebas de Tukey y Bonferroni (p <0.05). Se observó bradicardia 30 minutos después de la aplicación de medicación preanestésica y acidemia en el período transnestésico. A pesar de esto, tanto la dexmedetomidina aislada como la asociada proporcionaron estabilidad hemodinámica y respiratoria, a pesar de la bradicardia y acidemia observadas.(AU)

Main risk factors of dogs with congestive heart failure diagnosed by doppler echocardiographic parameters / Principais fatores de risco em cães com insuficiência cardíaca congestiva diagnosticada por parâmetros ecocardiográficos

Nowadays, congestive heart failure is one of the major complications of heart disease in small animals, which is characterized by a clinical condition in which the heart is unable to eject the blood efficiently. At long term, some compensatory mechanisms it will eventually become detrimental and, mainly, due to the congestion caused by it. In dogs, the main cause of CHF is chronic mitral valve degeneration, it is responsible for the degeneration of collagen present in the mitral valve structure that will have detrimental consequences on the entire circulatory system. The aim of the present study was to perform a retrospective study of 498 echocardiographic reports collected at a veterinary cardiology service of the Bauru region, from January 2017 to June 2019. Two groups were formed according to the Doppler echocardiographic alterations found, one that included animals with characteristics of congestive heart failure (CHF), and the other formed by non-CHF patients. Of the total number of animals evaluated, 61 were classified as affected by congestive heart failure and after classification, it was considered the main epidemiological factors (race, sex and age) of animals belonging to this group. Small breed animals were overrepresented and also elderly animals, with no apparent sexual predisposition. In addition, animals with CHF presented higher values when compared to animals without CHF of LA/Ao ratio (2.31 ± 0.30 vs. 1.46 ± 0.35), E/IRTV ratio (2.96 ± 0.39 vs. 1.16 ± 0.43) and E-wave velocity (1.45 m/s ± 0.18 vs. 0.75 m/s ± 0.22) on echocardiographic examination.(AU)

A insuficiência cardíaca congestiva (ICC) é uma das principais complicações das cardiopatias em pequenos ani-mais atualmente, sendo que é caracterizada por uma condição clínica em que o coração não é capaz de bombear a quantidade necessária de sangue para todo o corpo. A longo prazo, alguns mecanismos compensatórios acabam se tornando prejudiciais ao mesmo principalmente por decorrência do quadro de congestão que ela ocasiona. Em cães, a principal causa de ICC é a degeneração valvar crônica mitral, a qual é responsável pela degeneração do colágeno presente na estrutura da valva mitral que trará consequências prejudiciais a todo o sistema circulatório. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo a realização de um estudo retrospectivo de 498 laudos ecodopplercardiográficos provenientes de serviço de cardiologia veterinária da região de Bauru, no período de janeiro de 2017 a junho de 2019. Foi realizada a classificação em dois grupos, de acordo com as alterações ecodop-plercardiográficas encontradas, sendo os grupos formados por animais portadores de insuficiência cardíaca congestiva e animais não portadores. Do número total de animais, 61 foram classificados como acometidos por insuficiência cardíaca congestiva e, após a classificação, foram avaliados os principais fatores epidemiológicos (raça, sexo e idade) dos animais pertencentes a esse grupo. As raças de pequeno porte foram as mais representadas, sendo os animais idosos mais acometidos, sem predisposição sexual aparente. Além disso, animais com ICC apresentaram valores maiores quando comparados aos animais sem ICC of LA/Ao razão (2.31 ± 0.30 vs. 1.46 ± 0.35), E/IRTV razão (2.96 ± 0.39 vs. 1.16 ± 0.43) e velocidade E-wave (1.45 m/s ± 0.18 vs. 0.75 m/s ± 0.22) no exame ecocardiográfico.(AU)

Angioarchitecture of the coronary arteries in Mazama gouazoubira (G. Fischer, 1814) / Angioarquitetura das artérias coronárias em Mazama gouazoubira (G. Fischer, 1814)

Mazama gouazoubira is a widely distributed deer in the South American continent. However, studies on its anatomical characteristics are still scarce. The objective of this study was to elucidate the coronary circulation of M. gouazoubira. With this aim, after collecting cadavers on highways, twenty-four hearts injected with latex and preserved in formaldehyde at 10% were dissected. The dissections revealed that all specimens presented left coronary dominance, characterized by the origin of the subsinuous interventricular branch from the circumflex branch of the left coronary artery. The number of ventricular branches originated from branches of the left coronary artery was approximately five times higher than that of the right coronary artery. The occurrence of myocardial bridges was registered in 91.7% of the individuals, with bridges predominating over the paraconal interventricular branch. The mean length of the paraconal interventricular sulcus was significantly higher in males (p = 0.02). The number of atrial branches and ventricular branches, length of myocardial bridges and length of subsinuous interventricular sulcus did not vary significantly between sex. Left coronary dominance and high frequency of myocardial bridges in M. gouazoubira are preponderant anatomical traits also present in different species of Ruminantia suborder. Coronary dominance studies in other South American deer species may confirm the correlation of this trait with the evolutionary history of these animals.

Mazama gouazoubira é um cervídeo com ampla distribuição no continente sul americano. Entretanto, estudos sobre suas características anatômicas, ainda, são escassos. Objetivou-se elucidar a circulação coronariana do M. gouazoubira. Para tal, foram dissecados 24 corações injetados com látex e conservados em formaldeído a 10%, obtidos de cadáveres recolhidos em rodovias. As dissecações revelaram que todos os espécimes apresentaram dominância coronariana esquerda, caracterizada pela origem do ramo interventricular subsinuoso, a partir do ramo circunflexo da artéria coronária esquerda. O número de ramos ventriculares originados, a partir de ramos da artéria coronária esquerda, foi aproximadamente cinco vezes maior do que aquele da artéria coronária direita. A ocorrência de pontes de miocárdio foi registrada em 91,7% dos indivíduos, predominando as pontes sobre o ramo interventricular paraconal. O comprimento médio do sulco interventricular paraconal foi significativa-mente maior em machos (p = 0,02). O número de ramos atriais e ramos ventriculares, comprimento das pontes de miocárdio e comprimento do sulco interventricular subsinuoso, não variaram, significativamente, entre os sexos. A dominância corona-riana esquerda e a elevada frequência de pontes de miocárdio no M. gouazoubira são traços anatômicos preponderantes, tam-bém, em diferentes espécies da subordem Ruminantia. Estudos sobre dominância coronariana em outras espécies de cervídeos sul americanos poderão sugerir a correlação desta característica com a história evolutiva destes animais.

Angioarchitecture of the coronary arteries in Mazama gouazoubira (G. Fischer, 1814) / Angioarquitetura das artérias coronárias em Mazama gouazoubira (G. Fischer, 1814)

Mazama gouazoubira is a widely distributed deer in the South American continent. However, studies on its anatomical characteristics are still scarce. The objective of this study was to elucidate the coronary circulation of M. gouazoubira. With this aim, after collecting cadavers on highways, twenty-four hearts injected with latex and preserved in formaldehyde at 10% were dissected. The dissections revealed that all specimens presented left coronary dominance, characterized by the origin of the subsinuous interventricular branch from the circumflex branch of the left coronary artery. The number of ventricular branches originated from branches of the left coronary artery was approximately five times higher than that of the right coronary artery. The occurrence of myocardial bridges was registered in 91.7% of the individuals, with bridges predominating over the paraconal interventricular branch. The mean length of the paraconal interventricular sulcus was significantly higher in males (p = 0.02). The number of atrial branches and ventricular branches, length of myocardial bridges and length of subsinuous interventricular sulcus did not vary significantly between sex. Left coronary dominance and high frequency of myocardial bridges in M. gouazoubira are preponderant anatomical traits also present in different species of Ruminantia suborder. Coronary dominance studies in other South American deer species may confirm the correlation of this trait with the evolutionary history of these animals.(AU)

Mazama gouazoubira é um cervídeo com ampla distribuição no continente sul americano. Entretanto, estudos sobre suas características anatômicas, ainda, são escassos. Objetivou-se elucidar a circulação coronariana do M. gouazoubira. Para tal, foram dissecados 24 corações injetados com látex e conservados em formaldeído a 10%, obtidos de cadáveres recolhidos em rodovias. As dissecações revelaram que todos os espécimes apresentaram dominância coronariana esquerda, caracterizada pela origem do ramo interventricular subsinuoso, a partir do ramo circunflexo da artéria coronária esquerda. O número de ramos ventriculares originados, a partir de ramos da artéria coronária esquerda, foi aproximadamente cinco vezes maior do que aquele da artéria coronária direita. A ocorrência de pontes de miocárdio foi registrada em 91,7% dos indivíduos, predominando as pontes sobre o ramo interventricular paraconal. O comprimento médio do sulco interventricular paraconal foi significativa-mente maior em machos (p = 0,02). O número de ramos atriais e ramos ventriculares, comprimento das pontes de miocárdio e comprimento do sulco interventricular subsinuoso, não variaram, significativamente, entre os sexos. A dominância corona-riana esquerda e a elevada frequência de pontes de miocárdio no M. gouazoubira são traços anatômicos preponderantes, tam-bém, em diferentes espécies da subordem Ruminantia. Estudos sobre dominância coronariana em outras espécies de cervídeos sul americanos poderão sugerir a correlação desta característica com a história evolutiva destes animais.(AU)

Tromboflebite séptica hemorrágica em equino / Hemorrhagic septic thrombophlebitis in horses

Background: Thrombophlebitis represents the main disease of the cardiovascular system of horses, its occurrence is strongly associated with the use of inappropriate materials and techniques. Its clinical presentation varies according to the degree of vessel obstruction and the appearance of complications, in the diagnosis it is essential to assess the extent of damage and the severity of the case. Establishing appropriate treatments, it should be noted that these are mostly clinical, reserving surgical interventions for severe cases, so the aim of the study is report a case of hemorrhagic septic thrombophlebitis treated by partial phlebectomy of the left jugular vein. Case: A 9-year-old male castrated equine, with no defined racial pattern, weighing 345 kg, used in the practice of vaquejada was attended at the Veterinary Hospital (HV) of the Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), Campus Patos (PB). During the anamnesis, it was reported that the animal presented colic a month ago, it was treated, recovered and since then, it started presenting an area with increase in volume in the neck region that ruptured the day before the HV attendance, where blood and pus came from. On physical exam, slight edema was noted in the left masseteric region, a volume rise involving the middle and cranial third of the neck with firm consistency in the left jugular sulcus, sensitivity to palpation and little drainage of purulent bloody secretion was observed. Additionally, tachycardia, tachypnea and intestinal hypomotility were found. In turn, in the ultrasound exam, a hypoechoic structure was seen, causing partial obstruction of the vessel, proximal to the fistulated region and total obstruction distal to it. With this information, antibiotic therapy was prescribed, a warm compress followed by the use of anti-inflammatory gel every 8 h. By choice of the owner, the animal returned to the farm, in the next day returned to the Veterinary Hospital, due to...

Epidemiological aspects of 306 emergency cases of small animals seen at a veterinary school hospital / Aspectos epidemiológicos de 306 casos emergenciais em pequenos animais atendidos em um Hospital Escola Veterinário

The deficiencies in the screening protocols and the paucity of epidemiological studies aimed at emergency care contribute to a generalist emergency approach, without focusing on the most common causes and injuries of emergency admissions in veterinary practice. Thus, we aimed to retrospectively study the epidemiological aspects of emergency cases in dogs and cats under routine care at a veterinary school hospital at University X over 24 months (June 2012June 2014). During this period, 328 cases were considered as emergencies, of which 306 were included in the study. The main causes of emergency admissions in both species were trauma, followed by hypovolemic shock. The third cause differed between species, the most common being neurological emergencies in dogs and urinary emergencies in cats. Knowledge of emergency epidemiological data in the pet clinic is essential for clinical surveillance, case screening, early diagnosis, rapid therapeutic intervention, and avoiding losses in the waiting rooms of veterinary emergency medicine.  

A deficiência nos protocolos de triagem e o número reduzido de trabalhos epidemiológicos voltados para atendimentos de emergência contribuem para uma abordagem emergencial generalista, sem foco nas causas e lesões mais comuns de admissões de emergência na prática veterinária. Dessa forma, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo estudar retrospectivamente os aspectos epidemiológicos dos casos de emergência em cães e gatos no atendimento de rotina em um Hospital Escola Veterinário da Universidade X durante um período de vinte quatro meses (junho 2012 –junho de 2014). Nesse período, foram atendidos 328 casos considerados emergenciais, sendo 306 incluídos, por possuírem todos os dados clínicos e laboratoriais necessários ao estudo. As principais causas de admissões de emergência em ambas espécies foram o trauma, seguido por choque hipovolêmico. A terceira causa diferiu entre as espécies, sendo as emergências neurológicas mais comuns nos cães e as urinárias nos gatos. O conhecimento de dados epidemiológicos de emergência na clínica de animais de companhia é fundamental para vigilância clínica, triagem dos casos, diagnóstico precoce e intervenção terapêutica rápida, a fim de se evitar perdas nas salas de espera de pronto-atendimentos veterinários.(AU)

Epidemiological aspects of 306 emergency cases of small animals seen at a veterinary school hospital / Aspectos epidemiológicos de 306 casos emergenciais em pequenos animais atendidos em um Hospital Escola Veterinário

The deficiencies in the screening protocols and the paucity of epidemiological studies aimed at emergency care contribute to a generalist emergency approach, without focusing on the most common causes and injuries of emergency admissions in veterinary practice. Thus, we aimed to retrospectively study the epidemiological aspects of emergency cases in dogs and cats under routine care at a veterinary school hospital at University X over 24 months (June 2012June 2014). During this period, 328 cases were considered as emergencies, of which 306 were included in the study. The main causes of emergency admissions in both species were trauma, followed by hypovolemic shock. The third cause differed between species, the most common being neurological emergencies in dogs and urinary emergencies in cats. Knowledge of emergency epidemiological data in the pet clinic is essential for clinical surveillance, case screening, early diagnosis, rapid therapeutic intervention, and avoiding losses in the waiting rooms of veterinary emergency medicine.

A deficiência nos protocolos de triagem e o número reduzido de trabalhos epidemiológicos voltados para atendimentos de emergência contribuem para uma abordagem emergencial generalista, sem foco nas causas e lesões mais comuns de admissões de emergência na prática veterinária. Dessa forma, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo estudar retrospectivamente os aspectos epidemiológicos dos casos de emergência em cães e gatos no atendimento de rotina em um Hospital Escola Veterinário da Universidade X durante um período de vinte quatro meses (junho 2012 –junho de 2014). Nesse período, foram atendidos 328 casos considerados emergenciais, sendo 306 incluídos, por possuírem todos os dados clínicos e laboratoriais necessários ao estudo. As principais causas de admissões de emergência em ambas espécies foram o trauma, seguido por choque hipovolêmico. A terceira causa diferiu entre as espécies, sendo as emergências neurológicas mais comuns nos cães e as urinárias nos gatos. O conhecimento de dados epidemiológicos de emergência na clínica de animais de companhia é fundamental para vigilância clínica, triagem dos casos, diagnóstico precoce e intervenção terapêutica rápida, a fim de se evitar perdas nas salas de espera de pronto-atendimentos veterinários.

Effect of obesity on ecocardiographic parameters and vertebral heart size (VHS) in cats / Efeito da obesidade sobre parâmetros ecocardiográficos e VHS em gatos

The objective of this study was to correlate cardiovascular parameters with obesity in adult cats. Forty mixed-breed cats (20 obese and 20 controls) underwent echocardiographic measurements and thoracic radiography to establish a relationship between the obtained data and the body condition score (BCS), body mass index (BMI), and vertebral heart size (VHS). Systolic arterial pressure (SAP) was also studied in 15 obese cats. Compared to the control cats, obese cats presented higher VHS values across several measurements, but among the echocardiographic parameters, only the difference in the left ventricular free wall at diastole was statistically significant. A positive relationship was established between body weight, left ventricular internal diameter at diastole, and left ventricular free wall at diastole. Positive relationships were also observed between BMI and diameter of the aorta, BCS and the left ventricular free wall at diastole, VHS and the left atrium, and the left atrial to aortic root diameter ratio and the left ventricular internal diameter at diastole. SAP was higher in obese cats and presented a positive correlation with body weight. Obesity correlated with an increase in SAP and with some echocardiographic and radiographic cardiac measurements in adult cats. Further studies are needed to better assess the effects of obesity on the cardiovascular system of cats and to reassess the parameters related to body weight and condition.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi correlacionar parâmetros cardiovasculares com obesidade em gatos adultos. Foram utilizados 40 gatos mestiços (20 obesos e 20 controles) avaliados por meio de medidas ecocardiográficas e radiografia de tórax, estabelecendo relação entre os dados obtidos e escore de condição corporal (ECC), índice de massa corporal (IMC) e tamanho do coração vertebral (VHS). A pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) também foi estudada em 15 gatos obesos. Os gatos obesos apresentaram valores mais altos de VHS nas várias medições realizadas em comparação com gatos normais, mas apenas a diferença na medida da parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole foi estatisticamente significativa nos parâmetros ecocardiográficos. Uma relação positiva foi estabelecida entre o peso corporal, o diâmetro interno do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole e a parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole. Outras relações positivas estabelecidas, incluem o IMC com o diâmetro da aorta (AO), ECC com parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole, VHS com o átrio esquerdo (AE), e da relação do átrio esquerdo com o diâmetro da raiz da aorta (AE: Ao) com diâmetro interno do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole. A PAS foi maior em gatos obesos e apresentou correlação positiva com o peso corporal. A obesidade se correlacionou com aumento da PAS, e com aumento em medidas ecocardiográficas e radiográficas em gatos. Mais estudos são necessários para melhor avaliar os efeitos da obesidade no sistema cardiovascular da espécie, e reavaliar os parâmetros relacionados ao peso e condição corporal.(AU)

Hematological profile of Astyanax bimaculatus under different offer of Lactobacillus sp / Perfil hematológico de Astyanax bimaculatus sob diferentes ofertas do Lactobacillus sp

The objective of this study was to evaluate the hematological and immunological parameters of yellowtail lambaris (Astyanax bimaculatus), fed with different frequencies of the probiotic (Lactobacillus spp.). Fishes were distributed into 20 experimental units and divided in five treatments: control (0%), 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of probiotic supply. A higher presence of total leukocytes (47.70 103cell µl-1), lymphocytes (36.11 103cell µl-1) and monocytes (11.58 103cell µl-1) was verified in fish fed 100% of probiotic, showing a directly proportional ratio among the frequencies of the probiotic supply on the availability of circulating cells in the circulatory system (R² 094-0.97). Hematocrit (27.30-34.63%), hemoglobin (7.00-10.90g dl-1), mean corpuscular volume (4.21-5.45 10-5.pg), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (3.45-5.40 10-6.pg), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, (2.99-4.35g dl-1), total protein (44.32-50.26mg ml-1) and total plasma immunoglobulin (27.96-34.08mg ml-1) did not diverge among treatments. The frequency of the probiotic supply interferes with the hematological profile, although lactic acid bacteria were present in the same concentrations in the intestinal tract, regardless of the probiotic supply, there was an increase in circulating leukocytes, especially lymphocytes and monocytes, in lambari fed probiotic with more frequency.(AU)

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar os parâmetros hematológicos e imunológicos do lambari-do-rabo-amarelo (Astyanax bimaculatus) alimentado com diferentes frequências de probiótico (Lactobacillus spp.). Os peixes foram distribuídos em 20 unidades experimentais e divididos em cinco tratamentos: controle (0%), 25%, 50%, 75% e 100% de frequência na suplementação probiótica. Alta presença de leucócitos totais (47,70 10³ células µ-1), linfócitos (36,11 10³ células µ-1) e monócitos (11,58 10³ células µ-1) em peixes alimentados com 100% de probiótico apresenta uma taxa diretamente proporcional entre as frequências da suplementação probiótica na disponibilidade das células no sistema circulatório (R² 094-0,97). Hematócrito (27,30-34,63%), hemoglobina (7,00-10,90g dL-¹), volume corpuscular médio (4,21-5,45 10-5.pg), hemoglobina corpuscular média (3,45-5,40 10-6.pg), concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (2,99-4,35g dl-1), proteína total (44,32-50,26mg ml-1) e imunoglobulina plasmática total (27,96-34,08mg ml-1) não divergiram entre os tratamentos. A frequência da suplementação probiótica interferiu no perfil hematológico. Embora as bactérias ácido láticas estejam presentes na mesma concentração no trato intestinal, independentemente da oferta de probiótico, houve um aumento na circulação de leucócitos, especialmente linfócitos e monócitos, nos lambaris alimentados com maior frequência.(AU)

Hematological profile of Astyanax bimaculatus under different offer of Lactobacillus sp / Perfil hematológico de Astyanax bimaculatus sob diferentes ofertas do Lactobacillus sp

The objective of this study was to evaluate the hematological and immunological parameters of yellowtail lambaris (Astyanax bimaculatus), fed with different frequencies of the probiotic (Lactobacillus spp.). Fishes were distributed into 20 experimental units and divided in five treatments: control (0%), 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of probiotic supply. A higher presence of total leukocytes (47.70 103cell µl-1), lymphocytes (36.11 103cell µl-1) and monocytes (11.58 103cell µl-1) was verified in fish fed 100% of probiotic, showing a directly proportional ratio among the frequencies of the probiotic supply on the availability of circulating cells in the circulatory system (R² 094-0.97). Hematocrit (27.30-34.63%), hemoglobin (7.00-10.90g dl-1), mean corpuscular volume (4.21-5.45 10-5.pg), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (3.45-5.40 10-6.pg), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, (2.99-4.35g dl-1), total protein (44.32-50.26mg ml-1) and total plasma immunoglobulin (27.96-34.08mg ml-1) did not diverge among treatments. The frequency of the probiotic supply interferes with the hematological profile, although lactic acid bacteria were present in the same concentrations in the intestinal tract, regardless of the probiotic supply, there was an increase in circulating leukocytes, especially lymphocytes and monocytes, in lambari fed probiotic with more frequency.(AU)

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar os parâmetros hematológicos e imunológicos do lambari-do-rabo-amarelo (Astyanax bimaculatus) alimentado com diferentes frequências de probiótico (Lactobacillus spp.). Os peixes foram distribuídos em 20 unidades experimentais e divididos em cinco tratamentos: controle (0%), 25%, 50%, 75% e 100% de frequência na suplementação probiótica. Alta presença de leucócitos totais (47,70 10³ células µ-1), linfócitos (36,11 10³ células µ-1) e monócitos (11,58 10³ células µ-1) em peixes alimentados com 100% de probiótico apresenta uma taxa diretamente proporcional entre as frequências da suplementação probiótica na disponibilidade das células no sistema circulatório (R² 094-0,97). Hematócrito (27,30-34,63%), hemoglobina (7,00-10,90g dL-¹), volume corpuscular médio (4,21-5,45 10-5.pg), hemoglobina corpuscular média (3,45-5,40 10-6.pg), concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (2,99-4,35g dl-1), proteína total (44,32-50,26mg ml-1) e imunoglobulina plasmática total (27,96-34,08mg ml-1) não divergiram entre os tratamentos. A frequência da suplementação probiótica interferiu no perfil hematológico. Embora as bactérias ácido láticas estejam presentes na mesma concentração no trato intestinal, independentemente da oferta de probiótico, houve um aumento na circulação de leucócitos, especialmente linfócitos e monócitos, nos lambaris alimentados com maior frequência.(AU)

Cardiovascular assessment in Female Spotted Paca ( Cuniculus paca ) / Avaliação cardiovascular em fêmea da Cúciculus paca

Aiming to provide cardiovascular morphophysiology information on the Cuniculus paca, an important neotropical rodent, eight healthy adult females of this species were evaluated three times by echocardiography under general anesthesia with isoflurane every 15 days. The exams were performed by a single experienced evaluator with the animals positioned in right and left decubitus. Posteriorly, two expert evaluators measured the cardiac chambers, walls and flow patterns, by B-mode, M-mode, and Doppler ultrasonography. The resulting values were compared among evaluators and periods by the Bland-Altman agreement test and several descriptive statistics were presented for each parameter. Echocardiographic images were obtained between the second and fifth left and right intercostal spaces, enabling the measurement of heart chambers and walls, mitral, tricuspid, aortic and pulmonary valves blood flows, and the ejection and shortening fractions calculation. None of the studied variables showed inter-observers or inter-periods variations. This study provided some normal echocardiographic variables, applicable to epidemiological, pathophysiological or case studies in the Cuniculus paca and phylogenetically close species.(AU)

Com o objetivo de fornecer informações da morfofisiologia cardiovascular da Cuniculus paca, um importante roedor neotropical, oito fêmeas adultas saudáveis dessa espécie foram avaliadas três vezes pela ecocardiografia, sob anestesia geral com isoflurano, a cada 15 dias. Os exames foram realizados por um único avaliador experiente, com os animais posicionados em decúbito direito e esquerdo. Posteriormente, dois avaliadores experientes mediram as câmaras cardíacas, as paredes e os padrões de fluxo, por meio do modo B, do modo M e da ultrassonografia Doppler. Os valores resultantes foram comparados entre avaliadores e períodos pelo teste de concordância de Bland-Altman, e várias estatísticas descritivas foram apresentadas para cada parâmetro. As imagens ecocardiográficas foram obtidas entre o segundo e o quinto espaços intercostais esquerdo e direito, o que permitiu a medição das câmaras e paredes cardíacas, do fluxo sanguíneo pelas válvulas mitral, tricúspide, aórtica e pulmonar e o cálculo das frações de ejeção e encurtamento. Nenhuma das variáveis estudadas mostrou variações entre os avaliadores ou entre os períodos. Este estudo fornece algumas variáveis ecocardiográficas normais, aplicáveis a estudos epidemiológicos, fisiopatológicos ou de casos na Cuniculus paca e em espécies filogeneticamente próximas.(AU)

Cardiovascular assessment in Female Spotted Paca ( Cuniculus paca ) / Avaliação cardiovascular em fêmea da Cúciculus paca

Aiming to provide cardiovascular morphophysiology information on the Cuniculus paca, an important neotropical rodent, eight healthy adult females of this species were evaluated three times by echocardiography under general anesthesia with isoflurane every 15 days. The exams were performed by a single experienced evaluator with the animals positioned in right and left decubitus. Posteriorly, two expert evaluators measured the cardiac chambers, walls and flow patterns, by B-mode, M-mode, and Doppler ultrasonography. The resulting values were compared among evaluators and periods by the Bland-Altman agreement test and several descriptive statistics were presented for each parameter. Echocardiographic images were obtained between the second and fifth left and right intercostal spaces, enabling the measurement of heart chambers and walls, mitral, tricuspid, aortic and pulmonary valves blood flows, and the ejection and shortening fractions calculation. None of the studied variables showed inter-observers or inter-periods variations. This study provided some normal echocardiographic variables, applicable to epidemiological, pathophysiological or case studies in the Cuniculus paca and phylogenetically close species.(AU)

Com o objetivo de fornecer informações da morfofisiologia cardiovascular da Cuniculus paca, um importante roedor neotropical, oito fêmeas adultas saudáveis dessa espécie foram avaliadas três vezes pela ecocardiografia, sob anestesia geral com isoflurano, a cada 15 dias. Os exames foram realizados por um único avaliador experiente, com os animais posicionados em decúbito direito e esquerdo. Posteriormente, dois avaliadores experientes mediram as câmaras cardíacas, as paredes e os padrões de fluxo, por meio do modo B, do modo M e da ultrassonografia Doppler. Os valores resultantes foram comparados entre avaliadores e períodos pelo teste de concordância de Bland-Altman, e várias estatísticas descritivas foram apresentadas para cada parâmetro. As imagens ecocardiográficas foram obtidas entre o segundo e o quinto espaços intercostais esquerdo e direito, o que permitiu a medição das câmaras e paredes cardíacas, do fluxo sanguíneo pelas válvulas mitral, tricúspide, aórtica e pulmonar e o cálculo das frações de ejeção e encurtamento. Nenhuma das variáveis estudadas mostrou variações entre os avaliadores ou entre os períodos. Este estudo fornece algumas variáveis ecocardiográficas normais, aplicáveis a estudos epidemiológicos, fisiopatológicos ou de casos na Cuniculus paca e em espécies filogeneticamente próximas.(AU)

Echocardiographic parameters and vertebral heart size (VHS) in lambs during the neonatal period / Parâmetros ecocardiográficos e tamanho cardíaco vertebral (VHS) em cordeiros durante o período neonatal

Due to cardiac immaturity, newborns have a different morphology and cardiac output when compared with adults. The purpose of this study was to describe the cardiac changes in echocardiographic characteristics and vertebral heart size (VHS) in newborn lambs during the neonatal period. Twenty-eight healthy Ile de France lambs were evaluated from birth to 35 days old. With the assistance of echocardiography, this study evaluated, both in systole and diastole, indexes related to the right and left ventricles, the aorta (Ao), the left atrium (LA), the E point to septal separation (EPSS) and the thickness of the interventricular septum (VSd, VSs). The left atrium-to-aorta ratio (LA:Ao) was analyzed and both the shortening (SF%) and ejection fractions were calculated (EF%). The VHS was obtained by measuring the heart's long and short axes and comparing it to the thoracic vertebrae. Throughout the first 35 days, the results obtained demonstrated an increased LV:RV ratio when compared to adult lambs. The calculated indexes and the LA:Ao ratio did not present statistically significant differences. The VHS values were normally distributed, presenting a mean of 9.67 vertebrae (v) during the entire period. Both radiographic and echocardiographic parameters showed significant differences between the analyzed moments. The VHS values ranged from 8.4v at the minimum end to 11.2v at the maximum. In order to prevent these changes from being misdiagnosed as heart diseases, this study contributed to take note of neonatal physiological anatomy peculiarities and in addition, it describes the parameters for this age in Ilê de France lambs.(AU)

Devido à imaturidade cardíaca, os recém-nascidos apresentam uma morfologia e débito cardíacos diferenciados quando comparado aos adultos. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever as alterações cardíacas ecocardiográficas e silhueta cardíaca ao exame radiográfico a partir do método VHS (vertebral heart size) em cordeiros recém-nascidos durante o período neonatal. Vinte e oito cordeiros saudáveis da raça Ile de France foram avaliados desde o nascimento até os 35 dias de idade. Ao exame ecocardiográfico avaliou-se em sístole e diástole, os índices relacionados aos ventrículos direito (VD) e esquerdo (VE), a parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo, aorta (Ao), átrio esquerdo (Ae), septo e ponto E, e diâmetros finais. Foi feita a relação entre o átrio esquerdo e aorta, além da fração de ejeção e de encurtamento. O VHS foi mensurado a partir do tamanho dos eixos longo e curto do coração em relação às vértebras torácicas. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram aumento do VE em relação ao VD no decorrer dos 35 dias (p<0,05). Os índices calculados e a relação AE:Ao não tiveram diferença. Os valores de VHS tiveram distribuição normal com média de 9,67 vértebras em todo o período. Os parâmetros radiográficos e ecocardiográficos mostraram diferenças significativas entre os momentos analisados. Os valores VHS variaram de 8.4 a 11.2 vertebras. Para evitar que essas alterações sejam erroneamente interpretadas como cardiopatias na espécie, este estudo demonstra às peculiaridades do desenvolvimento cardíaco neonatal em cordeiros, além de descrever parâmetros para esta faixa etária em cordeiros da raça Ilê de France.(AU)

Artérias colaterais do arco aórtico do gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) / Collateral arteries of the aortic arch in mongolian gerbil (meriones unguiculatus)

Background: Gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) are rodents belonging to the Muridae family. Recently, breeding of this species as pets has increased significantly. Animal models are being investigated to study diseases related to the human aortic arch. Despite the importance of the aortic arch in maintaining homeostasis, there is limited data available regarding its morphology in gerbils. This study was performed with the objective of describing the collateral branches of the aortic arch in this animal to establish a standard model and thus contribute to future research on cardiovascular diseases in humans.Materials, Methods & Results: This study used 20 male specimens from previous studies that were frozen and stored at the Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region. After thawing the animals, the thoracic cavity was opened for aortic cannulation. The vascular system was washed using saline solution and Neoprene latex stained with red pigment was injected. Subsequently, the animals were fixed in 10% formaldehyde and were dissected and analyzed 72 h later. The arrangement of the collateral branches of the aortic arch in gerbils was analyzed in all animals. The brachiocephalic trunk, the left common carotid, and the left subclavian artery were observed to originate as collateral branches. The brachiocephalic trunk bifurcated into the right common carotid and the right subclavian arteries. The right and the left subclavian arteries branched into the vertebral artery, the internal thoracic artery, the superficial cervical artery, the costocervical trunk, and the axillary artery.[...]

Echocardiographic parameters and vertebral heart size (VHS) in lambs during the neonatal period / Parâmetros ecocardiográficos e tamanho cardíaco vertebral (VHS) em cordeiros durante o período neonatal

Due to cardiac immaturity, newborns have a different morphology and cardiac output when compared with adults. The purpose of this study was to describe the cardiac changes in echocardiographic characteristics and vertebral heart size (VHS) in newborn lambs during the neonatal period. Twenty-eight healthy Ile de France lambs were evaluated from birth to 35 days old. With the assistance of echocardiography, this study evaluated, both in systole and diastole, indexes related to the right and left ventricles, the aorta (Ao), the left atrium (LA), the E point to septal separation (EPSS) and the thickness of the interventricular septum (VSd, VSs). The left atrium-to-aorta ratio (LA:Ao) was analyzed and both the shortening (SF%) and ejection fractions were calculated (EF%). The VHS was obtained by measuring the heart's long and short axes and comparing it to the thoracic vertebrae. Throughout the first 35 days, the results obtained demonstrated an increased LV:RV ratio when compared to adult lambs. The calculated indexes and the LA:Ao ratio did not present statistically significant differences. The VHS values were normally distributed, presenting a mean of 9.67 vertebrae (v) during the entire period. Both radiographic and echocardiographic parameters showed significant differences between the analyzed moments. The VHS values ranged from 8.4v at the minimum end to 11.2v at the maximum. In order to prevent these changes from being misdiagnosed as heart diseases, this study contributed to take note of neonatal physiological anatomy peculiarities and in addition, it describes the parameters for this age in Ilê de France lambs.(AU)

Devido à imaturidade cardíaca, os recém-nascidos apresentam uma morfologia e débito cardíacos diferenciados quando comparado aos adultos. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever as alterações cardíacas ecocardiográficas e silhueta cardíaca ao exame radiográfico a partir do método VHS (vertebral heart size) em cordeiros recém-nascidos durante o período neonatal. Vinte e oito cordeiros saudáveis da raça Ile de France foram avaliados desde o nascimento até os 35 dias de idade. Ao exame ecocardiográfico avaliou-se em sístole e diástole, os índices relacionados aos ventrículos direito (VD) e esquerdo (VE), a parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo, aorta (Ao), átrio esquerdo (Ae), septo e ponto E, e diâmetros finais. Foi feita a relação entre o átrio esquerdo e aorta, além da fração de ejeção e de encurtamento. O VHS foi mensurado a partir do tamanho dos eixos longo e curto do coração em relação às vértebras torácicas. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram aumento do VE em relação ao VD no decorrer dos 35 dias (p<0,05). Os índices calculados e a relação AE:Ao não tiveram diferença. Os valores de VHS tiveram distribuição normal com média de 9,67 vértebras em todo o período. Os parâmetros radiográficos e ecocardiográficos mostraram diferenças significativas entre os momentos analisados. Os valores VHS variaram de 8.4 a 11.2 vertebras. Para evitar que essas alterações sejam erroneamente interpretadas como cardiopatias na espécie, este estudo demonstra às peculiaridades do desenvolvimento cardíaco neonatal em cordeiros, além de descrever parâmetros para esta faixa etária em cordeiros da raça Ilê de France.(AU)

Artérias colaterais do arco aórtico do gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) / Collateral arteries of the aortic arch in mongolian gerbil (meriones unguiculatus)

Background: Gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) are rodents belonging to the Muridae family. Recently, breeding of this species as pets has increased significantly. Animal models are being investigated to study diseases related to the human aortic arch. Despite the importance of the aortic arch in maintaining homeostasis, there is limited data available regarding its morphology in gerbils. This study was performed with the objective of describing the collateral branches of the aortic arch in this animal to establish a standard model and thus contribute to future research on cardiovascular diseases in humans.Materials, Methods & Results: This study used 20 male specimens from previous studies that were frozen and stored at the Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region. After thawing the animals, the thoracic cavity was opened for aortic cannulation. The vascular system was washed using saline solution and Neoprene latex stained with red pigment was injected. Subsequently, the animals were fixed in 10% formaldehyde and were dissected and analyzed 72 h later. The arrangement of the collateral branches of the aortic arch in gerbils was analyzed in all animals. The brachiocephalic trunk, the left common carotid, and the left subclavian artery were observed to originate as collateral branches. The brachiocephalic trunk bifurcated into the right common carotid and the right subclavian arteries. The right and the left subclavian arteries branched into the vertebral artery, the internal thoracic artery, the superficial cervical artery, the costocervical trunk, and the axillary artery.[...](AU)

Cardiovascular evaluation in bitches in oestrus, pregnancy and puerperium

Background: Pregnancy may change maternal hemodynamic, which is considered a physiological mechanism for adaptation. Cardiac output tends to be influenced by reductions in vascular resistance and increases in uterine vasculature, as well as reduced autonomic tone combined with gestational physiological anaemia and increased blood volume due to increased plasma volume and hormonal mechanisms. In bitches, few studies have been conducted investigating the changes of the system and the clinical implications for the mother and foetuses due to poor cardiac adaptation during pregnancy.Materials, Methods & Results: Systolic blood pressure (SBP), electrocardiographic and Doppler echocardiographic measurements and serum sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) levels were evaluated in six bitches of reproductive age. An evaluation was performed in oestrus (M0), followed by evaluations at 25 (M1), 45 (M2), and 60 days (M3) after the last natural or artificial insemination and 15 days after delivery (M4). For the statistical analysis, the means, medians and the standard deviation were calculated. The data were analysed using ANOVA and the Tukey test, with significance level of 5%. A descriptive analysis was performed for color Doppler in echocardiogram evaluation, cardiac axis and rhythm in electrocardiogram evaluation. In the electrolytic evaluation, significant differences were found only in the serum levels of Na, noticed as a reduction in M0-M1 and M3-M2 and an increase in M1-M2 and M3-M4. No significant differences were observed in the SBP, although there was a tendency to SBP reduction. ECG parameters were not significantly different, with no rhythm or conduction disturbances. There was not a significant difference in HR. Four animals (66.6%) had axis deviation to the right when comparing the oestrous phase with the final quarter of pregnancy. The echocardiographic parameters did not show significant changes.[...]

Cardiovascular evaluation in bitches in oestrus, pregnancy and puerperium

Background: Pregnancy may change maternal hemodynamic, which is considered a physiological mechanism for adaptation. Cardiac output tends to be influenced by reductions in vascular resistance and increases in uterine vasculature, as well as reduced autonomic tone combined with gestational physiological anaemia and increased blood volume due to increased plasma volume and hormonal mechanisms. In bitches, few studies have been conducted investigating the changes of the system and the clinical implications for the mother and foetuses due to poor cardiac adaptation during pregnancy.Materials, Methods & Results: Systolic blood pressure (SBP), electrocardiographic and Doppler echocardiographic measurements and serum sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) levels were evaluated in six bitches of reproductive age. An evaluation was performed in oestrus (M0), followed by evaluations at 25 (M1), 45 (M2), and 60 days (M3) after the last natural or artificial insemination and 15 days after delivery (M4). For the statistical analysis, the means, medians and the standard deviation were calculated. The data were analysed using ANOVA and the Tukey test, with significance level of 5%. A descriptive analysis was performed for color Doppler in echocardiogram evaluation, cardiac axis and rhythm in electrocardiogram evaluation. In the electrolytic evaluation, significant differences were found only in the serum levels of Na, noticed as a reduction in M0-M1 and M3-M2 and an increase in M1-M2 and M3-M4. No significant differences were observed in the SBP, although there was a tendency to SBP reduction. ECG parameters were not significantly different, with no rhythm or conduction disturbances. There was not a significant difference in HR. Four animals (66.6%) had axis deviation to the right when comparing the oestrous phase with the final quarter of pregnancy. The echocardiographic parameters did not show significant changes.[...](AU)