A finite-element model for predicting pulsatile flow and pressure waveforms along a flexible tube is developed. The model is used in conjunction with a parameter estimation scheme to investigate the feasibility of estimating the vessel radius and compliance and peripheral resistance from measurements of flow and pressure waveforms. Model predictions are compared with experimental measurements to assess the accuracy of the method. The computer simulation satisfactorily predicts both pressure and flow waveforms for a variety of boundary conditions. Results show that the sensitivity of the waveforms to parameters generally depends on the type of boundary conditions and on the variable used in the estimation scheme. Vessel radius could not be determined reliably due to lack of sensitivity of the waveforms to this parameter. However, both the vessel compliance and peripheral resistance could be estimated satisfactorily for certain boundary conditions.