Pulse wave velocity

The energy associated with the arterial pulse propagates through the circulation. The velocity at which the arterial pulse propagates is termed the Pulse wave velocity (PWV). PWV is used clinically as a measure of arterial stiffness. It is easy to measure invasively and non-invasively in humans, is highly reproducible, has a strong correlation with cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality, and was recognized by the European Society of Hypertension as an indicator of target organ damage and a useful additional test in the investigation of hypertension. A high pulse wave velocity (PWV) has also been associated with poor lung function.