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Methods and devices for measuring arterial compliance in humans
Bruno M Pannier1, Alberto P Avolio, Arnold Hoeks
1Hopital Manhès, Medecine Interne, Fleury-Merogis, France. bpannier_manhes@libertysurf.fr
American Journal of Hypertension
|August 6, 2002
Summary
This review examines methods for evaluating arterial stiffness, focusing on pulse transit time, pulse wave contour, and direct pressure/geometry measurements. Reproducibility data for devices assessing arterial stiffness is highlighted.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Arterial stiffness is a significant indicator of cardiovascular risk.
- Accurate measurement of arterial stiffness is crucial for clinical assessment.
- Standardization of measurement techniques is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and analyze global methods and devices for evaluating arterial stiffness.
- To assess the reproducibility of different arterial stiffness measurement devices.
- To summarize expert consensus on arterial stiffness assessment.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of pulse transit time (PTT) for regional stiffness.
- Evaluation of arterial pulse wave contour for systemic stiffness.
- Direct measurement of arterial geometry and pressure for local stiffness.
Main Results:
- Three primary methodologies exist for arterial stiffness evaluation.
- Devices are utilized in clinical laboratories and departments.
- Reproducibility data from literature is critically examined for each device.
Conclusions:
- The review synthesizes findings from the first Conference of Consensus on Arterial Stiffness.
- Understanding different methodologies is key to accurate arterial stiffness assessment.
- Standardized and reproducible methods are essential for clinical application.