PWV Reliability

When the pulse wave velocity (PWV) determination is carried out in two steps (ECG + Tonometer), significant variation in heart rate or systolic blood pressure between the recording of the proximal and distal pulse waveform curves, should not occur. This is an important reason why blood pressure should be recorded, using a traditional validated sphygmomanometer, at the same time of both proximal and distal pulse wave acquisition.
In order to provide better data reliability, the WPulsePen software displays the variation for heart rate (HR) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) at peripheral determination time (FEM, Femoral Artery; RAD, Radial Artery, and so on), compared to the central determination time (CAR, Carotid Artery).

../Figure: PWV tolerance (1)

Excessive changes in heart rate and systolic pressure are shown in the table with a red background for the involved percentage change.

../Figure: PWV tolerance (2)

Measurements of PWV where the difference between the values of HR or SBP recorded in Carotid and peripheral Arteries is over 10% are not usually considered reliable. The WPulsePen software in this option field allows selecting the percentage range of tolerance for each parameter (systolic blood pressure and heart rate).
If the values are not included in this range, it is suggested to repeat the test.

../Figure: PWV tolerance 3

../Figure: PWV tolerance (4)

../Figure: PWV tolerance (5)

After changing the percentage range of tolerance for each parameter (SBP and/or HR), you need to confirm the change (button in the upper right corner).

../Figure: Validation change