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Pulse wave velocity correlates with aortic atherosclerosis assessed with transesophageal echocardiography

C Szmigielski1, G Styczyński1, M Sobczyńska1

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Hypertension and Vascular Diseases, The Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.

Journal of Human Hypertension
|April 24, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) is linked to aortic atherosclerosis. This study found PWV relates to intima-media thickness, independent of age and blood pressure, highlighting its role in cardiovascular risk assessment.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Vascular Biology
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a key noninvasive marker of vascular stiffness and cardiovascular risk.
  • Aortic atherosclerosis, characterized by intima-media thickening and plaque formation, contributes to increased cardiovascular events.
  • Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) provides detailed imaging of the aorta, enabling assessment of atherosclerotic changes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) and aortic atherosclerosis.
  • To determine if this relationship is independent of patient age and blood pressure parameters.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 99 patients undergoing TEE for atrial fibrillation cardioversion was studied.
  • Maximal aortic intima-media thickness (IMT) and atherosclerotic plaque were measured using TEE.
  • Aortic PWV was measured after restoration of sinus rhythm.
  • Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to assess associations.

Main Results:

  • PWV showed significant univariable associations with IMT, age, and pulse pressure.
  • Multivariable regression analysis revealed that only IMT remained significantly associated with PWV (P<0.0001).
  • Age and pulse pressure were not significantly related to PWV in the multivariable model.

Conclusions:

  • Aortic PWV is significantly related to aortic atherosclerosis, as assessed by TEE-measured IMT.
  • This association is independent of patient age and blood pressure.
  • PWV may serve as a valuable indicator of aortic atherosclerotic burden.

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