Agreement of High-Definition Oscillometry (HDO) and Invasive Blood Pressure Measurements at a Metatarsal Artery in Isoflurane-Anaesthetised Horses

Abstract

High-definition oscillometry (HDO) over the metatarsal artery (MA) in anaesthetised horses has not yet been evaluated. This study aimed to assess agreement between HDO and invasive blood pressure (IBP) at the metatarsal artery, and to evaluate compliance with the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) consensus guidelines. In this experimental study, 11 horses underwent general anaesthesia for an unrelated, terminal surgical trial. Instrumentation included an IBP catheter in one and an HDO cuff placed over the contralateral MA, as well as thermodilution catheters. Systolic arterial pressure (SAP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), and cardiac output were measured simultaneously. Normotension (MAP 61–119 mmHg) was maintained during the surgical study. Subsequently, hypotension (MAP ≤ 60 mmHg) and hypertension (MAP ≥ 120 mmHg) were induced pharmacologically. For MAP, the agreement between HDO and IBP was acceptable during normotension, while during hypotension and hypertension, IBP was overestimated and underestimated by HDO, respectively. The monitor failed to meet most ACVIM validation criteria. Consequently, if haemodynamic compromise or rapid blood pressure changes are anticipated, IBP remains preferable.

Keywords

• equine
• anaesthesia
• monitoring
• blood pressure
• high-definition oscillometry
• HDO