Echocardiography Recording in Awake Miniature Pigs

Overview

This article describes a cart construct designed for conducting echocardiography in standing awake minipigs. It outlines the construction process, training techniques, and provides representative ultrasound images.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Cardiovascular research
• Preclinical evaluation
• Animal models

Background

• The protocol allows for cardiac monitoring in large animal models.
• It enables echocardiograms to be recorded without anesthesia.
• The technique is crucial for evaluating cardiovascular therapeutics.
• Training methods for the pigs are essential for successful implementation.

Purpose of Study

• To develop a method for high-fidelity cardiac functional monitoring.
• To facilitate echocardiography in awake pigs.
• To improve the accuracy of physiological data collection.

Methods Used

• Construction of a specialized cart for echocardiography.
• Training pigs to accept the cart and ultrasound probe.
• Recording echocardiograms from various views.
• Using high-value treats to encourage pig cooperation.

Main Results

• Echocardiogram images were successfully obtained from awake pigs.
• The ejection fraction was comparable between sedated and conscious sessions.
• The cart design accommodates the growing sizes of animals.
• Individualized food mixtures improved pig acclimation.

Conclusions

• The cart facilitates high-fidelity physiological data collection.
• This technique can enhance studies of human diseases.
• It allows for additional procedures like blood draws and ECG recording.

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