The electrocardiogram of anaesthetized southern sea lion (Otaria flavescens) females

RODRIGUEZ, D.H.; CASTRO, E.; DASSIS, M.; PONCE DE LEON, A.; RODRIGUEZ, E.M.

Journal of Veterinary Cardiology

Elsevier B.V.

Año: 2016 vol. 18 p. 71 - 78

1760-2734

Abstract Objectives: The goal of this study was to characterize for the first time theelectrocardiogram (ECG) of the southern sea lion (SSL) Otaria flavescens. Animals, materials and methods: Thirteen wild SSLfemales were captured at Isla de Lobos (Uruguay) and anesthetized with isoflurane. ECG recording was performed on anaesthetized animals atventral recumbence following standardized procedures. Results: The ECG recordingsshowed normal sinus rhythm. Amplitude and duration of P and T waves, QRScomplex, PR interval (PRi), QT interval (QTi) and ST segment (STs) were determinedfor all animals in all leads. QT corrected (QTc) was determined in lead II. Pwave polarity was consistent among animals (positive in LI, LII, LIII and AVFleads and negative in AVL and AVR leads for all animals), but T wave polaritydid not present any constant pattern among animals, being either positive, negativeor biphasic in different leads and different animals. The PRi (0.15 _ 0.2 s) wassimilar to the allometric prediction for most of mammalian species including humans.The STs were normal in 10 of the SSL but showed STs depression in 3 of theanimals. Almost all animals had a negative electrical axis (_30 to _120_), with one exceptionthat showed a positive electrical axis (120_). Mean eupneic heart rate (HR) was 104.61 _ 10.06 (range ¼ 88e120) beats per minute(bpm). Conclusions: This study was the first ECG description for this species, and provides valuableinformation for cardiac monitoring during anaesthesia.