부산대학교 도서관

Background:The analysis and extraction of information from pulse waves is becoming increasingly important in medical diagnostics. We discuss the diagnostic value as well as the limitations of these parameters for sleep laboratory investigations, particularly in the context of cardiovascular risk factor detection in sleep apnea patients.Methods:We describe the methods currently used to determine physiological values from pulse wave morphology. Measurements taken in our sleep laboratory with SOMNOscreen® (SOMNOmedics®, Randersacker) recorders are used to demonstrate the minimum signal (pulse wave and ECG) quality requirements.Results:Direct or indirect pulse wave analysis enables the determination of physiological parameters such as pulse rate, pulse rate variability, pulse wave variability, pulse transit time, pulse wave velocity, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, endothelial function/dysfunction and the degree of atherosclerosis of central arteries, as well as permitting differentiation between obstructive and central apnea and cardiovascular risk assessment. In order to obtain valid data, pulse wave and ECG signals have to meet several morphology criteria.Conclusions:The results are evaluated in the context of routine investigations in the sleep laboratory. Methods that are generally reserved for scientific research are distinguished from those that are already standard practice in—or could easily be integrated into—polysomnography.