pulse wave velocity
Also written as: PWV — pulse wave velocity
Measurement of arterial stiffness calculated by determining the speed of pressure wave propagation between two arterial sites.
Full Definition
Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a non-invasive hemodynamic measurement that quantifies arterial stiffness by calculating the speed at which pressure waves travel between two defined arterial locations. The measurement typically involves simultaneous recording of pulse waveforms at proximal and distal arterial sites, with PWV calculated as the distance between measurement points divided by the pulse transit time. Carotid-femoral PWV is considered the gold standard measurement, representing aortic stiffness. Normal PWV values vary with age, but elevated values (>10 m/s in adults) indicate significant arterial stiffening and increased cardiovascular risk. PWV serves as both a research tool and clinical biomarker for vascular aging and cardiovascular disease progression.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as PWV; ensure units (m/s) are specified in clinical reporting.
In Context
- "The patient's carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity of 12.5 m/s indicated significant arterial stiffening." — Vascular function assessment
- "Serial pulse wave velocity measurements showed improvement following antihypertensive therapy." — Treatment monitoring