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Pregnancy Effect on Echocardiographic Parameters in Great Dane Bitches
Monica Melandri1, Ilaria Spalla1, Luca Fanciullo1
1Ambulatorio Veterinario "Il Melograno", Sesto Calende, 21018 Varese, Italy.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|November 3, 2020
Summary
Pregnancy enhances systolic function in Great Danes, with increased cardiac output, stroke volume, and heart rate. These changes reflect maternal adaptation during uncomplicated gestation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Cardiology
- Canine Reproduction
Background:
- Pregnancy induces physiological adaptations in left ventricular (LV) function.
- Breed-specific echocardiographic data are crucial for evaluating cardiac function changes during gestation in dogs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess breed-specific echocardiographic parameters in Great Danes during uncomplicated pregnancy.
- To evaluate variations in systolic function and cardiac dimensions throughout gestation.
Main Methods:
- Echocardiographic M-mode and B-mode data were collected from nine Great Dane bitches before ovulation and near parturition.
- Key parameters including LV dimensions, volumes (indexed and non-indexed), ejection fraction, fractional shortening, heart rate, and cardiac output were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Gestational age significantly affected diastolic dimensions and functional parameters, showing increases.
- Systolic dimensions decreased, while cardiac output, stroke volume, and heart rate increased significantly (p < 0.01).
- End-point-septal-separation, left atrium/aortic root ratio, and sphericity index remained statistically unchanged.
Conclusions:
- Uncomplicated pregnancy in Great Danes is characterized by enhanced systolic function and increased cardiac output.
- Elevated preload is the likely mechanism driving these cardiac adaptations to support fetal development.
