Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Measuring the Carotid to Femoral Pulse Wave Velocity (Cf-PWV) to Evaluate Arterial Stiffness
05:51

Measuring the Carotid to Femoral Pulse Wave Velocity (Cf-PWV) to Evaluate Arterial Stiffness

Published on: May 3, 2018

Hypertension, systolic blood pressure, and large arteries

Michel E Safar1

  • 1Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôtel-Dieu, Centre de Diagnostic et de Thérapeutique, Université Paris Descartes, Paris Cedex 04, Paris, France. michel.safar@htd.aphp.fr

The Medical Clinics of North America
|May 12, 2009
PubMed

Insights

This study explores factors affecting blood pressure and pulse pressure in hypertension. It analyzes how arterial hemodynamics predict cardiovascular risk and influence treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Physiology
  • Hypertension Research
  • Hemodynamics

Background:

  • Hypertension is a major cardiovascular disease risk factor.
  • Pulse pressure (PP) variations in hypertensive subjects require further investigation.
  • Understanding central and peripheral blood pressure modulation is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify factors influencing systolic blood pressure (SBP) and PP in hypertension.
  • To elucidate mechanisms behind PP variations in hypertensive individuals.
  • To evaluate pulsatile arterial hemodynamics as cardiovascular (CV) risk predictors and therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on blood pressure and pulse pressure modulation.
  • Analysis of hemodynamic parameters in hypertensive populations.
  • Examination of the relationship between pulsatile hemodynamics and CV outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Identified key factors modulating SBP and PP in hypertensive subjects.
  • Elucidated specific mechanisms contributing to enhanced PP variations.
  • Demonstrated the predictive value of pulsatile arterial hemodynamics for CV risk.
  • Highlighted the role of pulsatile hemodynamics in hypertension management strategies.

Conclusions:

  • Pulsatile hemodynamics are significant in hypertension and CV risk assessment.
  • Targeting pulsatile hemodynamics may offer novel strategies for CV risk reduction in hypertension.
  • Further research into arterial hemodynamics can optimize hypertension treatment.

Related Concept Videos

Hypertension I: Introduction01:28

Hypertension I: Introduction

Hypertension is a widespread, long-term medical condition where blood pressure in the arteries remains elevated. It is characterized by systolic blood pressure readings of 130 mm Hg or above or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of 80 mm Hg or higher. Unmanaged hypertension poses significant health risks, making the distinction between primary (or essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension crucial, as their management and implications vary.Primary HypertensionPrimary hypertension,...
Hypertension II: Pathophysiology01:29

Hypertension II: Pathophysiology

Hypertension is a chronic condition in which the blood's force against artery walls is excessively high, posing risks such as heart disease. The condition's underlying mechanisms involve complex interactions among the cardiovascular, kidney, and autonomic nervous systems.Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): This system significantly influences blood pressure regulation. When blood pressure decreases, the kidneys secrete renin. This enzyme transforms angiotensinogen, a plasma protein,...
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure01:18

Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure

Hypertension, the most common cardiovascular disease, is diagnosed through repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Its risks, including damage to the kidney, heart, and brain, are directly proportional to blood pressure levels. Starting from 115/75 mm Hg, the risk of cardiovascular disease doubles with each increment of 20/10 mm Hg. The diagnosis relies on blood pressure measurements, not on patient symptoms, as hypertension is often asymptomatic until end-organ damage is imminent or...
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:30

Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Hypertension is asymptomatic and also referred to as the "silent killer" until it progresses to a severe stage or causes target organ disease. Patients may experience symptoms stemming from the strain on blood vessels and tissues in various organs or the heart's increased workload.Physical exams might show no abnormalities other than high blood pressure. Signs of vascular damage, when present, correspond to the organs supplied by the affected vessels, leading to target organ damage. For...
Disorders of the Autonomic Nervous System01:18

Disorders of the Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is an intricate network of nerves that controls functions such as the regulation of heart rate, digestion, and blood pressure regulation. When this system malfunctions, it can lead to various disorders that affect multiple bodily functions. One common feature of many autonomic disorders is the involvement of smooth blood vessels, which play a crucial role in regulating blood flow throughout the body.
Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's phenomenon, is a...
Special considerations while measuring blood pressure01:28

Special considerations while measuring blood pressure

When assessing blood pressure (BP), healthcare professionals must consider various factors and potential unexpected outcomes to ensure accurate readings and provide proper patient care. Adhering to these guidelines is essential to achieving the most reliable results.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.