A new proposal for electrode positioning in dogs from the perspective of electrovectorcardiography

Research on electrocardiology in dogs has primarily relied on methods developed for human cardiology, specifically in placing electrodes on the limbs and thorax. However, these methods do not consider the canine heart’s unique anatomical structure and electrophysiological characteristics. In this study, we propose a new arrangement of electrodes that aligns better with the anatomy of the canine heart by creating planes and axes that are more suitable for this species. This study compared two acquisition methods this article will be made available, without undue reser both frontal and transverse planes. Ninety dogs, aged between 1 and 5 years, of varying weights and both sexes, were evaluated. All dogs underwent two distinct methods to examine 12-lead ECG and sequential vectorcardiograms. With the new electrode arrangement method, we found that leads DI, AVL, V5, and V6 accurately demonstrated the lateral wall of the left ventricle (p < 0.0001). The frontal, transverse, and sagittal planes consistently represented the P, QRS complex, J point, and T waves. The new method offers a unique and original approach, providing a more accurate representation of cardiac electrical activity than the conventional method. Although it has not been directly evaluated in animals with heart disease, this new electrode arrangement method has potential for future applications in diagnostic contexts. This new electrode arrangement can be a valuable tool for screening and early diagnosis in veterinary cardiology for dogs.