Pulse-wave morphology and pulse-wave velocity in healthy human volunteers: examination conditions

Applanation tonometry for pulse-wave analysis (PWA) and determination of pulse-wave velocity (PWV) is a non-invasive method for assessment of the central aortic pressure waveform and indices of arterial stiffness. The objective of this study was to examine the influence of eating and smoking on PWA and PWV measurements in order to establish standard examination conditions. Furthermore, intra- and interobserver reproducibility and the effects of varying the site of measurements were observed.

Duplicate measurements of the radial pressure waveform and of the brachial and aortic PWV on the right and left side of the body were recorded in 23 healthy subjects by two trained observers. Measurements were performed in the fasting state and 3 h after a high-calorie meal, and before and 1 h after smoking a cigarette.

Intake of a high-calorie meal as well as smoking caused significant changes in both PWA and PWV parameters and an inter-arm difference was observed. Intra- and interobserver reproducibility was good.

Pulse-wave measurements by applanation tonometry should be undertaken in the same arm during fasting and smoking abstinence.