Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV)
- What it measures: Pulse Wave Velocity assesses the speed at which blood pressure waves move through the arteries. Higher velocities indicate arterial stiffness.
- How it works: PWV is typically measured between two points on the body (e.g., the carotid and femoral arteries). A faster travel time of the pulse wave corresponds to greater arterial stiffness.
- Why it's used: PWV is considered the gold standard for assessing arterial stiffness.