Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Using implantable loop recorders to diagnose fainting and weakness
By MacKie, Brian A et al.·Published in Journal of veterinary cardiology : the official journal of the European Society of Veterinary Cardiology·2010·VCA Sacramento Veterinary Referral Center, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Retrospective analysis of an implantable loop recorder for evaluation of syncope, collapse, or intermittent weakness in 23 dogs (2004-2008).
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 23 dogs with symptoms like fainting, collapsing, or weakness were evaluated using a special heart monitor called the Reveal Plus ILR. This device helped identify the cause of these episodes in many cases, with 11 dogs receiving a specific diagnosis related to heart issues, such as slow heart rates or blockages. The use of the ILR was effective and had few complications, making it a valuable tool for veterinarians to understand why some dogs experience these concerning symptoms. Most dogs showed improvement once the underlying issues were identified.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Cardiac arrhythmias as a cause of syncope, collapse, or intermittent weakness can be challenging to diagnose. The purpose of this paper is to retrospectively review the diagnosis and outcome of 23 cases of syncope or collapse in dogs that had a Reveal Plus ILR recorder placed as part of the diagnostic evaluation. ANIMALS, MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medical records of 23 client-owned dogs that were presented for evaluation of syncope, collapse, or intermittent weakness were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: Recurrent syncope occurred in 13/23 (57%) and a positive diagnosis of the cause of the event was made in 11/13 (48% of all dogs). Diagnoses included 6/11 with prolonged periods of sinus arrest with slow ventricular escape rate and one each of sub-optimal fixed heart rate by endocardial pacing, high grade second degree atrioventricular block, supraventricular tachycardia, normal ECG during multiple episodes, and high grade second degree atrioventricular block or sinus arrest. CONCLUSIONS: The Reveal Plus ILR device was successful in diagnosing a high percentage of cases of syncope or collapse in which signs recurred and implantation had a low complication rate. The Reveal Plus ILR device is a useful tool to diagnose the etiology of recurrent syncope, collapse, or intermittent weakness in the dog.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20299295/