Non-Invasive aortic wave intensity analysis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Non-Invasive aortic wave intensity analysis
IRAS ID
232836
Contact name
Michael Henein
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Luton and Dunstable University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
This study aims at validating a non-invasive technique for the determination of local pulse wave velocity (PWV) and the use of wave intensity analysis (WIA) as a tool for describing the cardio-vascular interaction. These parameters are used as direct surrogates for aortic stiffness, hardening, distensibility and ventricular load in assessing patient’s health.
Arterial stiffness (hardening) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular related death. Current available techniques used for determining PWV, measure an average value between two locations (foot-to-foot technique) and are not able to account for changes is mechanical or geometrical properties of the arteries.
More recent techniques are based on invasive measurements of pressure and velocity. These measurements determine the local PWV and estimate arterial mechanical properties (stiffness, distensibility and compliance) as well as cardio-vascular interaction (left ventricular load).
To avoid these drawbacks, the technique proposed in this study aims at measuring direct, local and non-invasive PWV in the ascending aorta. The parameters assessed by echocardiographic measurements are vessel diameter (D) and flow velocity (U), which, based on the technique described are used to determine PWV.
Wave intensity analysis (WIA) is used for studying the cardio-arterial interaction. In particular, it is used to provide information about the time and energy carried by the reflected waves, which are of clinical interest.
The patients aimed to be studied for establishing aortic stiffness and ventricular load in the ascending aorta are healthy individuals and those with treated hypertension.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/EE/0379
Date of REC Opinion
6 Nov 2018
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion