Pulse Wave Analysis

Pulse Wave Velocity – The measurement of arterial stiffness

The parameter pulse wave velocity (PWV) measured in m/s is the biological indicator for stiff or elastic arteries.
A 2-minute recording can be used to determine vascular age by pulse wave velocity & detect an increased risk for cardiovascular disease.
An increased PWV outside the standard is an indicator of increased arterial stiffness.

What is a Pulse Wave Analysis (PWA)?

Pulse wave analysis is a validated non-invasive diagnostic method for analysis of hemodynamic parameters using a cuff-based blood pressure monitor.
A 2-minute recording provides information on the age of the cardiovascular system and other hemodynamic parameters.
Pulse wave technology offers advantages

1) as a screening method for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases²

2) as an additional tool for the diagnostics of cardiovascular diseases such as

Heart Failure
Structural disorders of the heart
Coronary heart disease
Chronic kidney disease

3)for therapy monitoring of cardiovascular diseases

Recommendation of Action

Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV)

Early detection of increased pulse wave velocity can be positively influenced by lifestyle changes & drug treatment. Pulse wave velocity measurement is clinically validated & accepted biomarker for arterial stiffness assessment.

Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV)

Summary: Recommendation of Action

Central blood pressure has a higher predictive value for cardiovascular diseases than peripheral blood pressure.
Central blood pressure can be lowered by drugs in order to reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease.
The guidelines recommend to examine the patient’s risk profile for prematurely increased arterialstiffness in order to detect organ damage.
The risk analysis should be re-evaluated at regular intervals.
In case of end organ damage, drug therapy should be initiated to reduce arterial stiffness (PWV).