The term 'Cardiovascular disease' (CVD) refers to a group of health conditions affecting the heart or blood vessels. CVD is one of the primary causes of death and disabilities worldwide, contributing to 32% of all global deaths, with more than 80% attributed to heart attacks and strokes.
The main cause of heart attacks and strokes is the buildup of fatty deposits, called plaque, in the blood vessels that supply the heart and brain. This condition is known as atherosclerosis.
Identifying individuals at high risk of severe atherosclerosis through proper non-invasive assessments is crucial to preventing its progression to the severe and expensive symptomatic stage.
The central focus of the aforementioned assessments is to measure central hemodynamic parameters. Aortic Pulse Wave Velocity (PWVao), Augmentation Index (AIx), and Central Systolic Blood Pressure (SBPao) each contribute to solving the puzzle, providing a better understanding of the most crucial organization in the human body—the cardiovascular system.
The need for a non-invasive yet comprehensive method for these parameters gave rise to the idea of Arteriograph. Using this device provides us with extensive data reports that enable informed decisions about further therapeutic interventions.
Pulse Wave Analysis (PWA) involves a comprehensive study of the pulse pressure waveform. It provides valuable insights into ventricular ejection and arterial characteristics, such as stiffness. This analysis is instrumental in understanding factors that significantly predict cardiovascular events, especially in high-risk patients. The relevance of PWA is particularly crucial for individuals with an elevated risk of cardiovascular issues, taking into account their medical history and current condition.
Pulse wave analysis can essentially extract valuable cardiovascular information from the pulse waveform, revealing insights into cardiovascular function and health conditions. Currently, there aren't many methods for pulse wave analysis, but non-invasive pulse wave analysis has become a valuable clinical tool due to its intended use and minimal discomfort for the patient. Arteriograph, utilizing the cuff oscillometry method, not only offers a comprehensive noninvasive pulse wave analysis but also provides crucial information about cardiovascular function.
Aortic Pulse Wave Velocity (PWVao) is determined by the characteristics of the aortic wall. The stiffer the aortic wall, the faster the PWVao is. This parameter can indicate existence of asymptomatic atherosclerosis.
Central Systolic Blood Pressure (SBPao) is related to vascular disease and its outcome stronger than traditional upper arm systolic blood pressure measurements.
Aortic Augmentation Index (AIXao) is mainly determined by the peripheral arterial tone (resistance) of the small arteries and arterioles. It evaluates proper endothelial function and reveals probability of any vascular damage