Validation of a smart textile electrocardiographic monitoring device in racehorses during high-speed exercise

Exercise-associated cardiac arrhythmias may contribute to poor performance and sudden cardiac death in horses. Widespread monitoring is limited by device availability and suitability for field use.

To (1) compare electrocardiographic (ECG) quality from a smart textile system (Myant Skiin Equine) with a reference device (Televet II) during exercise, and (2) evaluate whether arrhythmia detection with Myant Skiin Equine is comparable to the Televet II.

Prospective blinded clinical study.

Fifty racehorses (25 Thoroughbreds, 25 Standardbreds) underwent up to three high-speed exercise sessions, with simultaneous ECG recordings from both devices. Recordings were assessed for diagnostic quality and arrythmia detection.

Simultaneous ECGs were recorded with both systems across 123 exercise sessions. Median (IQR) peak speed during exercise was 14.7 m/s (13.5-16.2). Twenty-nine (12%) recordings were non-diagnostic due to ≥10% artefact throughout the session (10 Myant; 19 Televet). The Myant Skiin Equine produced more artefact-free recordings (94/123; 76%) than the Televet II (45/123; 37%) (95% CI 28-46%; p < 0.001). Mean maximum heart rate (217.8 ± 10.1 bpm Myant; 217.6 ± 9.9 bpm Televet) showed strong agreement between devices (ICC = 0.995, mean bias = -0.153 bpm). In 79 paired diagnostic recordings assessed for arrhythmia detection, arrhythmias were detected in 85% of recordings, and in 43/50 horses (86%; 95% CI 73-94%). Agreement for arrhythmia classification was 97.5% (k = 0.96), with all discrepancies occurring because of artefact.

Modest sample size and exclusion of some recordings due to artefact and horse withdrawal. Only the best-quality lead per recording was analysed, limiting multi-lead assessment and arrhythmia characterisation. Differences in device software and data handling may have influenced signal interpretation.

The Myant smart textile system provides ECG recordings of comparable quality and arrhythmia detection to Televet II during high-speed exercise in racehorses. This technology offers a practical and alternative tool for field-based cardiac monitoring and may facilitate broader adoption.