Determination of aortic distensibility and its variations in arterial hypertension

Aortic distensibility has been determined by non-invasive techniques: radioisotope measurement, quantitative radiocardiography and indirect arterial pressure measurement with calculation of the aortic rigidity index by the formula D = PP pulse (mm or mercury) / stroke volume (ml). The index value, equalling in normotensive subjects D = 0.55 was quite close to the value obtained in haemodynamic laboratories by invasive techniques (intracardiac stroke volume and arterial pressure measurements). Using the hereby determined aortic is rigidity index by non-invasive techniques, it was established that aortic distensibility is reduced since the early phases of arterial hypertension and in early age. Lowering of aortic distensibility correlates very well with diastolic pressure rise and with advancing age of patients with arterial hypertension. The aortic rigidity index, determined by non-invasive techniques, in suggested as an additional diagnostic and prognostic criterion in arterial hypertension.