Pulse volume recording
A non-invasive test that measures volume changes in blood flow through pressure cuffs to assess arterial circulation.
Full Definition
Pulse volume recording (PVR) uses pneumatic cuffs placed at multiple levels on the extremities to detect volume changes during the cardiac cycle, creating waveform tracings. Normal waveforms show a sharp upstroke, distinct peak, and prominent dicrotic notch. Abnormal patterns include dampened amplitude, delayed upstroke, and absent dicrotic notch, indicating arterial disease. PVR is particularly valuable when ankle-brachial index results are unreliable due to calcified vessels, as it measures actual flow rather than pressure.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as PVR after first use. Describe waveform characteristics when interpreting results.
In Context
- "Pulse volume recording demonstrated severely dampened waveforms at the ankle level, consistent with significant infrainguinal disease." — Vascular laboratory report
- "When ankle-brachial index was non-diagnostic, pulse volume recording provided valuable hemodynamic information." — Clinical assessment