Changes in Hematologic and Coagulation Profiles in Rabbits with Right-ventricle Pacing

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Hematology
• Cardiovascular Physiology

Background:

• Right-ventricle pacing is a medical intervention that can influence physiological parameters.
• Understanding its effects on hematology and coagulation is crucial for animal welfare and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the hematological and coagulation changes in rabbits following right-ventricle pacing.
• To assess the impact of pacing on erythrocyte, leukocyte, and platelet counts, as well as coagulation parameters.

Main Methods:

• Ten non-anesthetized male rabbits underwent right-ventricle pacemaker implantation.
• Blood samples were collected pre- and post-pacing (one month).
• Hematological analysis included erythrocyte, leukocyte, platelet counts, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and differential counts. Coagulation tests included prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, D-dimers, and kaolin-activated thromboelastography.

Main Results:

• An increase in red blood cell mass was observed post-pacing.
• A decrease in platelet count was noted after pacemaker placement.
• Coagulation tests (prothrombin time, aPTT, fibrinogen, D-dimers, TEG) showed no significant differences between pre- and post-pacing samples.

Conclusions:

• Right-ventricle pacing in rabbits does not appear to significantly alter hemostasis.
• Pacing may induce hematological changes, specifically affecting red blood cell mass and platelet count.
• Further research may be warranted to explore the clinical significance of these hematological alterations.