[New methods for noninvasive and continuous determination of dynamic compliance of the carotid artery]

A new method for the noninvasive, continuous determination of the compliance of the carotid artery wall has been developed and, in an initial study, validated. Measurements of pulsatile changes in the diameter of the carotid artery are accomplished with the 4-electrode impedance method, and the intravascular blood pressure is measured using an applanation tonometer developed during this project. The method has been employed for measurements in 12 individuals with no vascular disease, and in one patient with carotid artery stenosis before, during and after successful dilatation. With the pressure-volume curves recorded during the cardiac cycle, it is possible to calculate dynamic compliance and the non-elastic deformation work. While initial results are very promising, further validation by a large-scale clinical study is required.