Analysis of Base-Apex Lead Electrocardiogram in Clinically Healthy Kermani Sheep

The normal electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters in the base-apex lead were evaluated in 40 clinically healthy Kermani sheep, and compared between sexes and three age groups. The heart rate varied from 83-192 beats/min with a mean of 128.9±4.7 beats/min (Mean±SEM). Sinus arrhythmia was the only observed cardiac dysrhythmia on the ECG traces diagnosed in 45% of animals. No significant difference was found in heart rate, amplitude, and duration of ECG waves and intervals between two sexes. Nevertheless, the heart rate, amplitude of ECG waves, duration of T waves and duration of P-R, Q-T and R-R intervals showed significant difference between the age groups. This study provides information on the cardiac rhythm, heart rate, duration, and amplitude of ECG deflections in Kermani sheep. We proposed the base-apex lead as a suitable lead for ECG evaluation in this species.