What is an ECG?
An ECG (electrocardiogram) records the heart’s electrical activity, providing critical insights into how the heart functions. For those working with performance horses, expert equine sports medicine ECG analysis can be incredibly valuable.
Why is it important?
By analysing ECGs, we can detect irregular heart rhythms that might impact performance or indicate underlying issues. Monitoring heart health through expert equine sports medicine ECG analysis is key to ensuring peak performance and early detection of potential problems.
How the Heart Works
Heart Function
The heart pumps blood through four chambers: the atria (top) and ventricles (bottom). Atria fill the ventricles, which then contract to send blood to the lungs and body. Each contraction is co-ordinated by electrical signals, recorded as an ECG, which can be properly understood through expert equine sports medicine ECG analysis.
What does the ECG capture?
There are different components to the ECG which provide information on the different parts of the cardiac cycle:
P wave: Atrial contraction
QRS complex: Ventricular contraction
T wave: Repolarisation and filling of the heart
When the Rhythm is Off
Arrhythmias
Abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias) can be classified into two main categories:
Physiological: Normal ‘missed’ beats at rest, often resolved with exercise.
Pathological: Abnormal beats (early or sustained) from the atria or ventricles. Specialist analysis determines their significance.
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac abnormality and affects up to 5% of racehorses. This condition disrupts the normal rhythm and coordination of the atria, reducing the heart’s pumping efficiency. The result? Decreased performance and potential long-term concerns. Expert equine sports medicine ECG analysis is crucial for managing this condition.
Who should read an ECG?
Expert ECG Analysis
ECG analysis requires expertise. Although any qualified veterinary surgeon can review an ECG, an experienced veterinary surgeon with specialist knowledge of equine heart conditions, therefore, provides the most accurate and actionable insights. This expert ECG analysis is particularly important for performance assessments.
When Should an ECG be Analysed?
- If there are performance concerns or unexplained drops in form.
- When an abnormal heart rate trace is detected (e.g., with greyed-out sections).
- If the horse’s maximal heart rate exceeds 240 bpm during exercise.
- For horses with a history of arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation, routine ECG analysis is advised after each recorded exercise session.
ECG Services Offered
Express ECG Analysis
At Equine Sports Medicine Analytics, we proudly offer a same-day ECG analysis service, provided that submissions are received before midday (Australian time).
Standard ECG Analysis
We complete standard ECG analysis within 2 business days.
Equipment Compatibility
Most vets and trainers use the Televet® or Equimetre® devices to record ECGs. Equine Sports Medicine Analytics is able to provide expert assessment for ECGs captured using a wide range of systems through our expert equine sports medicine ECG analysis service.
Advanced Analysis Tools
At Equine Sports Medicine Analytics, we use Kubios® software and the Arioneo veterinary dashboard for precise, professional ECG analysis, as part of our expert equine sports medicine services.