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Computer-assisted measurement of peripheral blood flow
P J McCullagh1, H G McAllister, P M McCaffrey
1Department of Mental Health, Queen's University of Belfast, UK.
Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology
|January 1, 1988
Summary
A new automated system measures peripheral blood flow using venous occlusion plethysmography. This cost-effective Apple II microcomputer-based device aids in studying circulatory disorders and drug effects.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Peripheral blood flow measurement is crucial for diagnosing circulatory disorders.
- Traditional methods can be complex and time-consuming.
- Venous occlusion plethysmography offers a viable approach for blood flow assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an automated, low-cost system for peripheral blood flow measurement.
- To integrate a microcomputer for precise control and data acquisition.
- To enable on-line indication of blood flow, venous capacitance, and digital systolic pressure.
Main Methods:
- Development of an automated venous occlusion plethysmography system using an Apple II microcomputer.
- Custom-built compressor unit and data acquisition interface for cuff control and circumference measurement.
- Acquisition and analysis of ten 8-second data epochs per session, with flow rate computed via least squares fit.
Main Results:
- Successful development of an automated system for peripheral blood flow measurement.
- On-line indication of blood flow rate achieved within 0.5 to 4.0 seconds post-inflation.
- Capability to measure venous capacitance and digital systolic pressure using additional algorithms.
Conclusions:
- The developed automated system provides a cost-effective and efficient method for peripheral blood flow assessment.
- The system facilitates the investigation of circulatory disorders.
- It is valuable for evaluating the efficacy of drugs affecting the peripheral circulation.