IN-VIVO DETERMINATION OF HUMAN ARTERIAL COMPLIANCE - PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION OF A NEW TECHNIQUE

Purpose. To obtain more detailed information about the dynamic mechani cal properties of human arteries in vivo, using a new technique based on intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). Methods. Arterial compliance was m easured in the common and/or external iliac arteries of 6 patients usi ng an IVUS device, concurrently obtained intraarterial pressure measur ements, and a video motion analysis system. Results. Compliance decrea sed with increasing vessel diameter and mean arterial pressure. Pre- a nd postangioplasty measurements were obtained in 2 patients but did no t demonstrate a consistent change in compliance following angioplasty. Conclusion. We conclude that IVUS provides an accurate means for in v ivo determination of human arterial compliance, the practical value of which needs to be established.