Dechra Launches Interactive Canine 4D Heart Model
3 months ago 
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Dechra has launched an interactive 4D heart model to enable vets to visually demonstrate the structural changes in the mitral valve and associated heart chambers through the four stages of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) to dog owners during consultations.
MMVD is the most common heart disease in dogs, particularly affecting small to medium breeds such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The disease often begins silently with a heart murmur as the only early sign (stage B1) and routine vet checks are essential for early diagnosis and slowing progression before clinical signs appear.
The 4D heart model - https://static.imascono.com/heartViewer/ - is a digital anatomical model that can visually demonstrate the structural changes in the mitral valve and associated heart chambers across stages A to D — from dogs at risk (stage A), through preclinical disease (stages B1 & B2), to symptomatic heart failure (stages C & D). This helps pet owners understand the condition’s progression and supports clearer communication of monitoring and treatment options.
Designed in conjunction with Alejandro Suarez Bonnet, senior lecturer in comparative pathology at the RVC and consultant pathologist at The Francis Crick Institute, the 4D heart model is the third digital anatomical model produced by Dechra. Other 4D models include the popular 4D dog ear model and the 4D feline kidney model.
The 4D heart model joins Dechra’s comprehensive range of cardiology support material including the owner support website - www.caninecongestiveheartfailure.co.uk – and a cardiology CPD module on Dechra Academy. The ‘Cardiology Piece by Piece’ module on Dechra Academy was written in conjunction with the veterinary cardiologist, Mike Martin, and is designed to help with the diagnosis, treatment and management of congestive heart failure in practice.
“MMVD often catches dog owners unawares due to the silent early signs and the slow progressive nature of the condition,” comments Callum Watkins, brand manager at Dechra. “Our new 4D heart model will enable vets to clearly demonstrate the different stages of the disease, including the structural changes in the mitral valve and associated heart chambers, to aid discussions on the monitoring and treatment options.”
To view the 4D heart model visit https://static.imascono.com/heartViewer/. For further information on cardiovascular disease go to https://www.dechra.co.uk/companion-animal/internal-medicine/cardiovascular-disease.
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