Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Measuring the Carotid to Femoral Pulse Wave Velocity (Cf-PWV) to Evaluate Arterial Stiffness
Published on: May 3, 2018
[Brachial versus central blood pressure and vascular stiffness]
Marie Frimodt-Møller1, Tine Willum Hansen, Susanne Lone Rasmussen
1Herlev Hospital, Nefrologisk Afdeling.
Abstract:
Central blood pressure (BP) estimates the true load imposed on the left ventricle to a higher degree than does brachial BP. Increased aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV) and central BP are risk markers for cardiovascular disease. Both can be measured by simple and noninvasive methods. Guidelines recommend measurements of aPWV for diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. However, the availability of the method is limited. Intervention studies showing a reduction of aPWV and indices of central BP are independently associated with fewer cardiovascular events are required as normal reference values are still lacking.
Related Concept Videos
Sites for measuring blood pressure
The Brachial Artery: Primary Site for Blood Pressure Measurement
Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(two-step method)
Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(one-step method)
Prepare for the Procedure:
Measurement of Blood Pressure
Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure
Special considerations while measuring blood pressure
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.
