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A phonocardiographic study of equine heart sounds
Insights
This study analyzed equine heart sounds using phonocardiograms, identifying 10 distinct sound events per cardiac cycle. The mitral valve area proved most effective for routine horse phonocardiography.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Cardiology
- Equine Physiology
Background:
- Understanding equine heart sounds is crucial for diagnosing cardiac conditions in horses.
- Phonocardiography is a key diagnostic tool, but optimal recording areas require definition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the occurrence and timing of heart sound events in horses.
- To determine the most suitable recording area for routine equine phonocardiography.
Main Methods:
- Phonocardiograms were recorded from the mitral, aortic, and tricuspid areas in 18 horses.
- Analysis focused on identifying and characterizing sound events within each cardiac cycle.
Main Results:
- Up to 10 distinct sound events were identified per cardiac cycle.
- The first heart sound comprised 4 components; the second was single; the third heart sound had 2 components.
- The occurrence of third and fourth heart sound components varied across horses and recording sites.
Conclusions:
- The mitral recording area is recommended for routine phonocardiographic studies in horses.
- Variability in third and fourth heart sound components highlights the need for careful interpretation.
Abstract:
The occurrence and timing of heart sounds were examined from phonocardiograms taken from the mitral, aortic and tricupsid recording areas in each of 18 horses. 10 sound events could be identified with each cardiac cycle. Atrial contraction produced up to 3 sound events. The first heart sound consisted of 4 components whereas the second sound was single. Two sound events were associated with the 3rd heart sound in early diastole. The occurrence of third and fourth heart sound components varied between horses and between recording areas. The mitral recording area was considered most satisfactory for routine phonocardiographic studies in horses.
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