References
Permanent transvenous pacemaker placement in a Terrier with sick sinus syndrome
Abstract
Pacemaker therapy is generally considered necessary in patients with symptomatic bradycardia that does not respond to medical management. Common arrhythmias requiring implantation of a permanent pacemaker include third degree atrioventricular (AV) block, high grade second degree AV block, sick sinus syndrome and persistent atrial standstill. This patient care report discusses the diagnosis and treatment of a tTrrier with sick sinus syndrome.
The patient was referred for investigation of syncopal episodes, which began 2 months before presentation. She was reported to have weakness and collapse during periods of excitement or exertion. Her owner reported that during an episode she would become weak on her hindlimbs before falling onto her side. No loss of consciousness was reported and recovery was prompt, with normal behaviour and mentation regained within seconds.
Species: Canine
Breed: Terrier cross
Age: 13 years
Sex: Female neutered
Weight: 9.5 kg.
The patient was bright, alert and responsive (BAR) on presentation. She had a body condition score of 6/9 and weighed 9.5 kg. Heart rate (HR) was 88 beats per minute (bpm) (normal rate for adult canine 60–160 bpm) with synchronous femoral pulses. Respiratory rate (RR) was 24 breaths per minute (normal rate 10–30 breaths per minute) with no respiratory effort. Cardiac auscultation revealed no heart murmur, but an irregularly irregular rhythm was audible, with frequent pauses noted. No jugular venous distension or pulsation was present and abdominal palpation was unremarkable.
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