Non-invasive continuous blood pressure monitoring systems: current and proposed technology issues and challenges

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Health
• Mobile Health Technology

Background:

• High blood pressure (hypertension) is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
• Continuous monitoring of arterial blood pressure (ABP) is crucial for managing cardiovascular health, especially in ambulatory settings.
• Current conventional blood pressure monitoring methods have limitations, driving the need for advanced technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze the latest continuous, cuff-less methods for blood pressure monitoring.
• To identify and discuss the key challenges and barriers hindering the clinical adoption of these novel technologies.
• To explore the potential of these methods as alternatives to conventional cuff-based devices.

Main Methods:

• Investigation of advanced technologies such as pulse transit time (PTT), ultrasound, and pulse arrival time (PAT).
• Analysis of machine learning applications in cuff-less blood pressure monitoring.
• Discussion of technology integration with wearable healthcare systems.

Main Results:

• Several cuff-less technologies show potential for accurate, portable, and comfortable blood pressure monitoring.
• Current methods predominantly remain in the prototype phase, facing challenges in meeting clinical standards.
• Integration with wearable systems is a key consideration for future development.

Conclusions:

• Cuff-less blood pressure monitoring technologies present a viable future for cardiovascular health management.
• Addressing accuracy, portability, comfort, and clinical validation are critical for widespread implementation.
• Further research and development are essential to overcome existing barriers and optimize these advanced monitoring solutions.