Analysis of Electrocardiographic Parameters in the Conscious Common Pheasants (Phasianus colchicus)

Summary The aim of this study was to establish normal electrocardiographic values and patterns in pheasants (Phasianus colchicus). The electrocardiograms were recorded in 24 conscious pheasants from both genders. All electrocardiograms were standardized at 1 mV=20 mm , with a paper speed of 50 mm/sec. Morphological patterns of P, QRS and T deflections were evaluated in the six limb leads (I, II, III, aVR, aVL, aVF). The amplitude and duration of waves and intervals were determined by using lead II. A regular sinus rhythm was observed in all birds. There was no significant difference between male and female pheasants except for amplitudes of P and T waves and duration of T wave. In all leads P waves were mainly positive in both sexes except for lead aVR. The dominant waveforms of the QRS complexes were rS in lead II, III and aVF, and qR in lead aVR and aVL in both sexes. Generally, T waves were positive in lead I, II, III and aVF, and negative in aVL, aVF. The majority of birds showed a slightly elevated ST segment in lead II. Heart rates were 193.5±45.8 and 235.7±59.9 beats per minute and mean electrical axes were -91±10° and -92±18° in male and female birds, respectively. This study provides electrocardiographic data for pheasants, which can be used for clinical purposes.