[Microcirculation index--screening parameter for the assessment of dynamics of the terminal vascular system]

In this paper a new diagnostic method for the judgment of the dynamics of the terminal vascular system is presented. The microcirculation index which is to be obtained by means of the special technique of the phlebembraxis plethysmography was developed in investigations lasting several years and it was tested on persons with normal blood pressure and on hypertonics in comparison to recognized reference methods. Age-specific normal values were established and the differences found between normo- and hypertonics as well as between different decenniums were statistically ascertained. One group of hypertonics which underwent an antihypertensive long-term therapy showed a significant improvement of the microcirculation index after 8 weeks. According to the hitherto got results this index is fully suited for the utilization as screening method for serial examinations within the X-ray mass examinations and the research of cardio-criculatory diseases. It especially allows the selection of hypertonics who need treatment and through the increasing use of the multi-channel-occlusion-plethysmograph developed by the author the application in routine work for the judgment of the microcirculation and its influence by an antihypertensive therapy. For further foundation of the findings comparative methods with additional reference methods, especially electron microscopy are provided.