Instruments for Pulse Wave Analysis and Measurement of Pulse Wave Velocity

Abstract

Over the last few years, a lot of new instruments for pulse wave analysis or measurement of pulse wave velocity have been launched onto the market. It seems that their main aim is to supply operator-independent devices, which can perform faster, while the accuracy of the measurement or the scientific soundness of the algorithms used are of secondary importance [18]. This research on simplification has also led to the design of fanciful instruments, which are extremely easy to use but not scientific. Therefore, you have to cope with the different new devices on the market, keeping in mind the set of values required to make the right choice. In my opinion, the scientific reliability of the values recorded is at the top of my list, followed by cost, with ease of use at the bottom. I take this opportunity to point out that price is not always indicative of good quality of the product and that, as far as medical instruments are concerned, it is rather the sales network and promotion that increase prices.