Relations of aortic pulse wave velocity and augmentation index assessed by the new brachial cuff SphygmoCor Xcel with other arterial stiffness measures

Abstract

A number of methods are currently available for measuring arterial stiffness. However, it is not known whether differences exist between measures made on the left vs. right side of the body. Recently, the new SphygmoCor Xcel has been developed that measures aortic pulse wave velocity (AoPWV) and augmentation index (AIx). The first objective of this study was to use the SphygmoCor Xcel to examine the relation between AoPWV and AIx measured on the left vs. right side of the body. The second objective was to assess the relation of AoPWV and AIx (SphygmoCor Xcel) compared with carotid arterial compliance, distensibility and beta stiffness index (high resolution ultrasonography and applanation tonometry). Twenty‐six adults participated in this study (16 men, 25 to 75 y). AoPWV and AIx measured on the left vs. right side of the body were not significantly different (mean difference: −0.15±0.1 m/s, P=0.2 and −0.29±0.7 %, P=0.7, respectively) and were strongly related (AoPWV: r=0.94, P<0.0001 and AIx: r=0.98, P<0.0001). AoPWV and AIx were positively related with beta stiffness index (r=0.44, P=0.04 and r=0.42, P=0.04, respectively), but were not related with arterial compliance or distensibility (P>;0.5). In conclusion, arterial stiffness measures from the left and right side of the body are similar and highly correlated. Compared to other measures, AoPWV and AIx are only significantly related with the beta stiffness index.