CardioBird

Preanesthetic evaluations are critical in veterinary medicine to ensure the safety and well-being of patients undergoing procedures that require anesthesia. Among the various diagnostic tools available, electrocardiography (ECG) remains underutilized in many general practices despite its proven benefits. With advancements in technology, such as the advent of AI-powered ECG solutions like CardioBird, incorporating ECG in preanesthetic examinations has become more practical, efficient, and reliable. This article highlights the importance of ECG in veterinary anesthesia, supported by evidence-based data and clinical guidelines.

ECG: A Time-Efficient and Accurate Tool with AI Technology

Traditional veterinary ECGs have often been considered time-consuming and heavily dependent on interpretation by trained specialists. This has led to hesitancy in routinely adopting ECG in general practice. However, AI-powered ECG systems like CardioBird are transforming this perception. These systems provide accurate, reliable reports within less than 15 minutes, following a quick and easy standard Lead II data collection process. This eliminates the subjectivity and variability associated with traditional manual interpretations, enabling primary care veterinarians to integrate ECG into their routine workflows seamlessly.

Studies have shown that AI-powered ECG systems enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve clinical efficiency, and reduce the burden on veterinary teams. These advantages make ECG accessible even in busy practices, underscoring its value in preanesthetic evaluations.

ECG: More Than a Cardiac Monitoring Tool

Although ECG is primarily used to assess cardiac function, its utility extends beyond the heart. The electrical signals captured by ECG also reflect the brain’s circulatory response to various physiological systems within the body. This is particularly important during anesthesia, as the procedure places considerable stress on multiple organ systems.

For example, abnormal ECG findings such as bradycardia or arrhythmias may indicate systemic issues such as electrolyte imbalances, hypoxia, or even underlying neurological conditions. These insights are crucial for tailoring anesthesia protocols to ensure the patient’s stability. Furthermore, ECG can help detect early signs of systemic complications such as sepsis or shock, making it a valuable tool for monitoring the whole body’s response to stressors.

One clinical example is the role of ECG in detecting vagally mediated arrhythmias, which may be triggered by surgical stimulation or underlying gastrointestinal disturbances. Identifying these abnormalities before anesthesia can help veterinarians adjust drug choices, fluid therapy, and monitoring plans, thereby minimizing intraoperative risks.

Cardiovascular Events: A Leading Cause of Anesthetic Deaths

One of the most compelling reasons to include ECG in preanesthetic evaluations is the high prevalence of cardiovascular-related complications during anesthesia. Early detection and management of underlying cardiac conditions are therefore paramount to improving anesthesia outcomes.

Arrhythmias, for instance, are among the five most common complications encountered during anesthesia. Without preanesthetic screening via ECG, these arrhythmias may go unnoticed until they manifest intraoperatively, potentially leading to catastrophic outcomes. By identifying such abnormalities preemptively, veterinarians can make informed decisions to mitigate risks, enhancing patient safety.

Clinical Guidelines Support ECG in Preanesthetic Protocols

The inclusion of ECG in preanesthetic protocols is not just a recommendation—it is backed by established clinical guidelines. The Korean Veterinary Medical Association (KVMA) and the 2020 AAHA Anesthesia and Monitoring Guidelines for Dogs and Cats both emphasize the importance of ECG in preanesthetic evaluations. These guidelines recognize ECG as a non-invasive, cost-effective tool that provides critical information about a patient’s cardiovascular and systemic health. Following these recommendations can help elevate the standard of care in veterinary anesthesia.

Conclusion

The integration of ECG into routine preanesthetic examinations is a vital step toward improving patient safety and outcomes in veterinary practice. With advancements in technology such as AI-powered ECG systems like CardioBird, the process is now faster, more reliable, and less dependent on specialist interpretation. Beyond its role in cardiac assessment, ECG provides valuable insights into systemic health, making it an indispensable tool for managing the whole-body response to anesthesia.

Given the high prevalence of cardiovascular-related anesthetic deaths and the widespread incidence of arrhythmias during procedures, preanesthetic ECG screening is not just a recommendation; it is a necessity. By adhering to clinical guidelines and leveraging modern technology, veterinary professionals can enhance the safety and quality of care for their patients.

References

• American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). (2020). AAHA Anesthesia and Monitoring Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. Retrieved from www.aaha.org.