Comprehensive noninvasive arterial vascular evaluation

Future Cardiol. 2009 Nov;5(6):573-9. doi: 10.2217/fca.09.44.

Abstract

Noninvasive evaluation of the health of the vasculature is an increasingly important approach to identifying individuals at risk for cardiovascular morbid events. Vascular health assessment involves functional and structural examination of the large and small arteries. Endothelial dysfunction, which alters small artery function, is a key contributor to progressive structural vascular changes. Ultrasonography of conduit arteries and aortic pulse-wave velocity provide information limited to structural changes in large arteries. Comprehensive assessment of the large and small arteries is best carried out by pulse-contour analysis. This can provide insight into functional and structural abnormalities in the small as well as the large arteries, and may be useful in monitoring response to therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arteriosclerosis / diagnosis
  • Arteriosclerosis / pathology
  • Arteriosclerosis / physiopathology
  • Blood Flow Velocity
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / pathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / physiopathology
  • Carotid Arteries / diagnostic imaging
  • Carotid Arteries / pathology
  • Carotid Arteries / physiopathology
  • Diastole
  • Endothelium, Vascular / diagnostic imaging
  • Endothelium, Vascular / pathology*
  • Endothelium, Vascular / physiopathology*
  • Femoral Artery / diagnostic imaging
  • Femoral Artery / pathology
  • Femoral Artery / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Muscle, Smooth, Vascular / pathology
  • Muscle, Smooth, Vascular / physiopathology
  • Nitric Oxide
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Pulse
  • Risk Factors
  • Systole
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Nitric Oxide