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Pulse analysis device measures elasticity, vessel age
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A new noninvasive device can simultaneously evaluate several characteristics of the arteries.
Meridian Medical’s Digital Pulse Analyzer is designed to provide early detection of arterial problems. Using a probe attached to the fingertip, the device measures pulse waveforms emanating from the heart through arteries. The probe sends this signal to a computer that displays and stores the pulse wave information. It measures arterial elasticity and detects plaque. The Digital Pulse Analyzer is able to determine the biological age of both large and small arteries via pulse wave information obtained from the probe.
According to a press release, the Digital Pulse Analyzer also measures heart rate variability. This feature assesses selected functions of the autonomic nervous system and can determine effects that changes in the autonomic nervous system may have on the heart.
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Source: Meridian Medical |
The Digital Pulse Analyzerobtained 510(k) clearance from the FDA in 2003 and is available commercially in the United States and Canada. The device can be used as a tool for early detection and prevention of future vascular problems and can also monitor the progression of treatment modalities such as exercise and pharmacological therapies. According to the company, the device is currently being used by more than 800 health care practitioners.
“The device is unique because it captures aspects of arterial function, and it can pick up changes in the arteries prior to BP going up,” Debbie Williams, RN, vice president of medical affairs, Meridian Medical, told Cardiology Today. “This will raise the red flag a lot earlier, and it can be a wake-up call for people to increase their exercise, improve their diet and address other cardiovascular risk factors they can control.” – by Eric Raible