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Clinical Use of Pulse Wave Analysis: Proceedings From a Symposium Sponsored by North American Artery
Raymond R Townsend1, Henry R Black2, Julio A Chirinos1
1Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.
Insights
Pulse wave analysis can aid blood pressure treatment decisions for prehypertensive and hypertensive patients. This guide offers strategies for interpreting and applying pulse wave analysis data in clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Physiology
Background:
- Pulse wave analysis (PWA) offers insights into cardiovascular health.
- Clinical guidance for interpreting and utilizing PWA data in managing hypertension is limited.
Observation:
- A panel of experts convened to discuss PWA application in clinical settings.
- The manuscript details an approach to the clinical use of pulse waveform analysis.
Findings:
- Strategies for interpreting central pressure waveforms are presented.
- Guidance is provided on integrating PWA with antihypertensive pharmacodynamics.
Implications:
- This work aims to facilitate the understanding and integration of PWA into routine patient care.
- Case examples are included to stimulate discussion and practical adoption of PWA.
Abstract:
The use of pulse wave analysis may guide the provider in making choices about blood pressure treatment in prehypertensive or hypertensive patients. However, there is little clinical guidance on how to interpret and use pulse wave analysis data in the management of these patients. A panel of clinical researchers and clinicians who study and clinically use pulse wave analysis was assembled to discuss strategies for using pulse wave analysis in the clinical encounter. This manuscript presents an approach to the clinical application of pulse waveform analysis, how to interpret central pressure waveforms, and how to use existing knowledge about the pharmacodynamic effect of antihypertensive drug classes in combination with brachial and central pressure profiles in clinical practice. The discussion was supplemented by case-based examples provided by panel members, which the authors hope will provoke discussion on how to understand and incorporate pulse wave analysis into clinical practice.