A new oscillometric method for assessment of arterial stiffness:: comparison with tonometric and piezo-electronic methods

Introduction Pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (Alx) are parameters of arterial stiffness and wave reflection. PWV and Alx are strong indicators for cardiovascular risk and are used increasingly in clinical practice. Previous systems for assessment of PWV and Alx are investigator dependent and time consuming. The aim of this study was to validate the new oscillometric method (Arteriograph) for determining PWV and Alx by comparing it to two clinically validated, broadly accepted tonometric and piezo-electronic systems (SphygmoCor and Complior). Design and method PWV and Alx were measured up to five times in 51 patients with the SphygmoCor, Complior and Arteriograph. In 35 patients, the measurements were repeated after 1 week in a second session using the same protocol. Results The correlations of the PWV as assessed with the Arteriograph with the values obtained using the SphygmoCor (r = 0.67, P < 0.001) and the Complior (r = 0.69, P < 0.001) were highly significant. Variability and reproducibility for PWV were best for the Arteriograph, followed by Complior and SphygmoCor. Alx (SphygmoCor versus Arteriograph) were very closely correlated (r = 0.92, P < 0.001). Perspectives The Arteriograph is a new, easy-to-use and time-effective method for assessing arterial stiffness and wave reflection.