A computerized multiparametric approach for the evaluation of cardiovascular risk in hypertensive patients

In order to evaluate the factor of cardiovascular risk in hypertensive patients, the most common measured physiological parameter is the arterial blood pressure (BP), often leaving out of considerations other important cardiovascular parameters, such as mechanical arterial compliance. To better evaluate the inherent variability of blood pressure, with respect to the control of cardiovascular system and situational determinants, a computerised system has been developed. By means of a PC, equipped with a 12 bits A/D board, BP, heart rate patient voice and posture and external temperature have been acquired. The systolic, diastolic, and mean values of BP and the heart rate have been continuously, beat-to-beat, acquired with a Finapres, while ad hoc developed sensors have been used to acquire the other parameters. The signals, acquired in the different detected situations, have been processed by means of a software developed in LabView environment. A linear regression of systolic blood pressure and RR interval in agreement with the Karemaker equation, is carried out, evaluating the baroceptorial system sensitivity. The developed system may be usefully exploited in the investigation of the baroceptorial reflex and the of control mechanism of cardiovascular system. Moreover, the multiparametric accomplished analysis method could be used in the evaluation and in the setting up of pharmacological interventions.