Improved signal quality using solid tip vascular placement of ECG leads in rats (LB667)

Continuous data recording, using telemetry systems, has proven to be the preferred way of collecting electrocardiogram (ECG) data in conscious freely moving animals. In small animals, however; the resulting recordings can have indistinguishable P, Q, R, S and T segments due to low signal to noise ratios. In large animals, similar challenges have been addressed by equipping wireless telemetry devices with an intravascular negative electrode, or solid tip lead (STL). The purpose of this study was to determine if STLs could be implanted in rats and result in improved ECG signal quality when compared to conventional subcutaneous leads. Two groups of Sprague Dawley rats, one with conventional lead placement (subcutaneous) and the other using the STL (vascular) were surgically implanted. ECG data were collected multiple times over a one year period. Signal quality was qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated between the STL and conventional lead groups, using a side by side visual comparison, and automated Q,...