Calculation of forward and backward arterial waves by analysis of two pressure waveforms

We developed a technique to calculate forward and backward arterial waves from proximal and distal pressure waveforms. First, the relationship between the waveforms is represented with an arterial tube model. Then, the model parameters are estimated via least-squares fitting. Finally, the forward and backward waves are calculated using the parameter estimates. Thus, unlike most techniques, the arterial waves are determined without a more difficult flow measurement or an experimental perturbation. We applied the technique to central aortic and femoral artery pressure waveforms from anesthetized dogs during drug infusions, volume changes, and cardiac pacing. The calculated waves predicted an abdominal aortic pressure waveform measurement more accurately (2.4 mmHg error) than the analyzed waveforms (5.3 mmHg average error); reliably predicted relative changes in a femoral artery flow measurement (14.7% error); and changed as expected with selective vasoactive drugs. The ratio of the backward- to forward-wave magnitudes was 0.37 ± 0.05 during baseline. This index increased by ∼50% with phenylephrine and norepinephrine, decreased by ∼60% with dobutamine and nitroglycerin, and changed little otherwise. The time delay between the waves in the central aorta was 175 ± 14 ms during baseline. This delay varied by ±∼25% and was inversely related to mean pressure.