Pacemaker implantation in a ferret with third degree atrio-ventricular block

Abstract

A six year old, spayed female ferret was diagnosed with third degree atrio-ventricular block by her regular veterinarian via an electrocardiogram (ECG) after exhibiting anorexia, weakness, and lethargy of several days duration, and an acute syncopal episode. The diagnosis was confirmed by the Exotic Service at Cornell University by performing an ECG, which showed P waves that were unassociated with any QRS complexes, and a ventricular escape rhythm with a heart rate of 44 beats per minute. A unipolar lead of the VVI Medtronic pacemaker was attached to the epicardium of the left ventricle, resolving all clinical signs associated with this cardiac condition. Unfortunately, the patient developed septic peritonitis post-operatively as a complication of surgery or gastric perforation due to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) use, and was euthanized seven days after surgery.