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Posted: 10th July 2013

Chimps have heart monitors fitted
Phil, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo
Pioneering procedure to improve understanding of heart defects

For the first time, two chimpanzees have been fitted with heart monitoring devices at a UK zoo. The data will give experts a better understanding of heart disease, which is a common problem in great apes.

Two young males from Whipsnade Zoo - Phil and Nikki - have been fitted with tiny implantable heart monitors that will measure their heart rhythms to check for potential problems.

The pair were selected for the procedure as they are related to two adult males who have been diagnosed with cardiovascular abnormalities that are thought to be genetic.

Veterinary surgeons from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) carried out the pioneering procedure alongside experts from the Cardiff Metropolitan University.

The procedure involved placing a semi-permanent heart monitor under the skin of each chimpanzee's back whilst they were under general anaesthetic.

Keepers at the zoo have trained the chimps to present their backs so that data can be downloaded from the device, and analysed over a period of time by experts.

Nic Masters, ZSL's head of veterinary services, said: "Until now we’ve only been able to monitor Phil and Nikki’s hearts when they’ve been sedated, but these devices mean we can monitor them when they’re awake and active, which should give us a much clearer idea of what’s going on."

The procedure is part of the International Primate Heart Project (IPHP), which is investigating why heart defects occur, whether it can be prevented and how to treat it.

According to ZSL's veterinary team, Phil and Nikki have returned to their normal selves after the procedure and are enjoying playing in the chimpnasium with the rest of their group.



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