Key result
A Vasovagal Tone Index below 2.97 was associated with a 3.27-fold higher likelihood of dogs being classified in stage C/D with signs of heart failure (p<0.001).
Why the study?
This study aimed to evaluate the Vasovagal Tone Index (VVTI) across different stages of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD).
Does the Vasovagal Tone Index (VVTI) correlate with the stage of Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and presence of heart failure in dogs?
Observational (n=173)
Does the Vasovagal Tone Index (VVTI) correlate with the stage of Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and presence of heart failure in dogs?
Odds Ratio: 3.27
p-value: p=<0.001
VVTI is a useful clinical tool for assessing heart rate variability in dogs with MMVD, showing a significant decrease after the onset of congestive heart failure.
This study aimed to evaluate the Vasovagal Tone Index (VVTI) at different stages of Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD). A total of 525 electrocardiograms from the period between 2014 and 2023 were analyzed, of which 173 could be included in the VVTI assessment and grouped according to the staging of MMVD. Animals in stages C/D showed a lower mean value (p<0.05) of VVTI (2.99±0.83) compared to stages A (3.55±0.68), B1 (3.48±0.79), and B2 (3.56±0.75), with no difference between stages A, B1, and B2 (p>0.05). Dogs with VVTI values below 2.97 (cut-off point) were 3.27 times more likely to be classified in stage C/D (with signs of heart failure) (p<0.001). Thus, VVTI has been shown to be a useful clinical tool for assessing heart rate variability in dogs with MMVD, with a significant decrease in its values after the occurrence of congestive heart failure.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Valandro et al. (2026) conducted an observational in Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD) (n=173). Vasovagal Tone Index (VVTI) < 2.97 vs. VVTI ≥ 2.97 was evaluated on Classification in stage C/D (with signs of heart failure) (OR 3.27, p=<0.001). A Vasovagal Tone Index below 2.97 was associated with a 3.27-fold higher likelihood of dogs being classified in stage C/D with signs of heart failure (p<0.001).
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: