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Pulse Waveform Analysis: Is It Ready for Prime Time?

Current Hypertension Reports volume 19, Article number: 73 (2017) Cite this article

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Arterial pulse waveform analysis has a long tradition but has not pervaded medical routine yet. This review aims to answer the question whether the methodology is ready for prime time use. The current methodological consensus is assessed, existing technologies for waveform measurement and pulse wave analysis are discussed, and further needs for a widespread use are proposed.

Recent Findings

A consensus document on the understanding and analysis of the pulse waveform was published recently. Although still some discrepancies remain, the analysis using both pressure and flow waves is favoured. However, devices which enable pulse wave measurement are limited, and the comparability between devices is not sufficiently given.

Summary

Pulse waveform analysis has the potential for prime time. It is currently on a way towards broader use, but still needs to overcome challenges before settling its role in medical routine.

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Affiliations

  1. Center for Health & Bioresources, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Donau-City-Strasse 1, 1220, Vienna, Austria

    Bernhard Hametner & Siegfried Wassertheurer

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  1. Bernhard Hametner
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  2. Siegfried Wassertheurer
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Correspondence to Siegfried Wassertheurer.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Blood Pressure Monitoring and Management

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Cite this article

Hametner, B., Wassertheurer, S. Pulse Waveform Analysis: Is It Ready for Prime Time?. Curr Hypertens Rep 19, 73 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11906-017-0769-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11906-017-0769-3

Keywords

  • Pulse wave reflection
  • Augmentation index
  • Wave separation analysis
  • Pulse wave intensity
  • Arterial Windkessel