Estimation of distributed arterial mechanical properties using a wave propagation model in a reverse way

To estimate arterial stiffness, different methods based either on distensibility, pulse wave velocity or a pressure-velocity loop, have been proposed. These methods can be employed to determine the arterial mechanical properties either locally or globally, e.g. averaged over an entire arterial segment. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a new method that estimates distributed arterial mechanical properties non-invasively. This new method is based on a wave propagation model and several independent ultrasound and pressure measurements. Model parameters (including arterial mechanical properties) are obtained from a reverse method in which differences between modeling results and measurements are minimized using a fitting procedure based on local sensitivity indices. This study evaluates the differences between in vivo measured and simulated blood pressure and volume flow waveforms at the brachial, radial and ulnar arteries of 6 volunteers. The estimated arterial Young's modulus range from 1.0 to 6.0 MPa with an average of (3.8 ± 1.7) MPa at the brachial artery and from 1.2 to 7.8 MPa with an average of (4.8 ± 2.2) MPa at the radial artery. A good match between measured and simulated waveforms and the realistic stiffness parameters indicate a good in vivo suitability.