Developing classification indices for Chinese pulse diagnosis.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Signal Processing

Background:

• Chinese pulse diagnosis is a traditional method for assessing patient health.
• Current qualitative methods rely heavily on the experience of Chinese physicians.
• A lack of quantitative theories limits objective interpretation of pulse waveforms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop objective classification criteria for Chinese pulse diagnosis.
• To transform the ancient diagnostic technique into a quantifiable method.
• To establish a scientific basis for interpreting pulse waveforms.

Main Methods:

• Chinese pulse curves were analyzed as wave signals.
• Multidimensional variable analysis was employed.
• Curve fitting was performed between pulse waveforms and Gamma density functions.

Main Results:

• Four new quantitative classification indices were developed: wave length, relative phase difference, rate parameter, and peak ratio.
• These indices allow for quantitative recognition of Chinese pulses.
• The quantitative classification precisely interprets pathological wrist-pulse waveforms.

Conclusions:

• New quantified classification indices objectively interpret Chinese pulse waveform patterns.
• This approach reduces the dependency on physician experience in pulse diagnosis.
• The study provides a more precise method for understanding health conditions through pulse analysis.