[Arterial stiffness: parameters, methods of assessment and methodological difficulties]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Biomedical Engineering

Context:

• Arterial stiffness is a significant independent predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
• Numerous prospective studies across diverse populations have established its prognostic value.

Purpose:

• To review various arterial stiffness parameters, including compliance, distensibility, elastic modulus, pulse wave velocity, and wave reflection.
• To discuss the challenges and difficulties associated with the clinical application of these parameters.
• To describe methods for evaluating different types of arterial stiffness and the principles guiding their use.

Summary:

• Arterial stiffness is a dynamic characteristic requiring standardized patient states and measurement methodologies for accurate assessment.
• Noninvasive techniques for evaluating arterial stiffness offer diagnostic value comparable to invasive methods.
• Emphasis is placed on the utility of less traumatic investigations for assessing vascular properties.

Impact:

• Highlights the importance of arterial stiffness as a biomarker for cardiovascular risk stratification.
• Underscores the need for standardized protocols in measuring arterial stiffness.
• Promotes the use of accessible, noninvasive methods for clinical assessment of vascular health.