2003 Volume 24 Issue 3 Pages 239-248
The transfer function between aortic pressure and radial artery pressure can be approximated with second-order response system. Pressure wave deformation between aortic pressure waveforms (APW) and radial pressure waveforms (RPW) was quantitatively analyzed with a 4-element model consisting of aortic characteristic impedance (Zc), inertance (L), peripheral resistance (Rp), and compliance (C), which shows the nature of second-order response, to clarify the physiological background of cardiovascular conditions accounting for pressure wave distortion. Therefore, we have provided a theoretical framework to simulate the change in shapes of arterial blood pressure waves using the four parameter (Zc, L, Rp, C), corresponding to the systemic circulation. The results suggest that large aortic impedance, low peripheral resistance, and increased compliance cause the damping of RPW. The model approach enables us to recognize the physiological causality of pressure wave deformation in relation to the cardiovascular conditions.
