Development of a Canine Model for Chronic Heart Failure Treatment Using a Pacemaker-Compatible Vagus Nerve Stimulation Device

Abstract

Abstract This present study aims to develop a vagus nerve stimulator compatible with a pacemaker to treat chronic heart failure(CHF) in a canine model, with the goal of alleviating side effects induced by Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS), such as bradycardia.Five dogs underwent rapid right ventricular pacing at a rate of 180–200 beats per minute for three months, and their clinical manifestations, electrocardiograms, echocardiography, and cardiac function were assessed. Subsequently, a canine model combining VNS with a pacemaker was established, and this combined system was continuously stimulated for one month. Electrocardiograms and program-controlled monitoring were observed after VNS implantation to evaluate its effectiveness.Each dog displayed clinical symptoms, encompassing reduced activity and wheezing. Echocardiography validated changes in both cardiac function and structure. Additionally, the electrocardiogram and programmable monitoring affirmed that treatment with VNS led to a reduction in heart rate. Subsequently, the pacemaker commenced operation post-monitoring, a development detectable by both the pacemaker and programmable monitoring. The establishment of a canine model integrating VNS with pacing confirmed the potential of a vagus nerve stimulator compatible with pacing to enhance the efficacy of standalone VNS.