Temporoorbital pulse rate can be obtained in ball pythons (Python regius) of any size and age and agrees with heart rate.

Abstract

Currently, a standardised technique to obtain pulse rate in reptiles is lacking. We evaluated the feasibility of obtaining a temporoorbital pulse rate in ball pythons of various ages and sizes and whether it agreed with the heart rate. Heart rate and pulse rate were recorded in 40 ball pythons (Python regius) weighing between 0.05 and 2.2 kg using a standard veterinary ultrasonic Doppler flow detector. The temporoorbital pulse rate was obtained on the dorsal aspect of the head at the level of the temporoorbital artery. Each measurement was performed in a randomised fashion by two operators, who were blinded to each other's results. Pulse rate and heart rate were successfully obtained for all snakes. The median heart rate was 60beats per minute (bpm)(range 48‒88 bpm), and the median pulse rate was 60bpm (range 48‒88 bpm). The mean difference between the pulse rate and heart rate was 1.2 beats (95% limits of agreement: ‒10.6 to 13.0). When pulse rate and heart rate were measured at the same time, they were synchronous. Only healthy snakes were included. Temporoorbital pulse rates can be easily obtained in ball pythons of any size. This novel method to assess peripheral pulse allows for a more complete cardiovascular evaluation in this species.