Methods of indirect (bloodless) measurement of blood pressure in horse
s have been outlined (Fig. 1.) together with their indications and lit
erature data (Table 1). Experiences obtained with the auscultatory and
Doppler-ultrasonic procedures have been summarized. The parallel meas
urements were carried out in 20 healthy horses of different breeds. Th
e following mean values were obtained: 119.7+/-16.5 Hgmm (15.92+/-2.19
kPa) in systole, 83.2+/-11.6 Hgmm (11,06+/-1.54 kPa) in diastole by a
uscultation method; 124.5+/-15.5 Hgmm (16.56+/-2.06 kPa) in systole, 8
0.2+/-11.0 Hgmm (10.66+/-1.46 kPa) in diastole by Doppler ultrasonic m
ethod. Figure 2 and Table 2 show the values measured during three cons
ecutive days in 4 and 3 healthy horses, respectively. Significant diff
erences were not found between the two methods. However, the Doppler-m
ethod proved to be more sensitive in the determination of diastolic va
lues. The measured mean blood pressure values were comparable with tho
se reported in the literature.