Influence of arterial pulse and reflected waves on blood pressure and cardiac function

An integrated view of the role of arterial blood pressure in cardiovascular physiology should consider both the steady (mean blood pressure) and pulsa tile (systolic, diastolic, and pulse pressures) components. This brief over view describes the important factors influencing these components, with emp hasis on the consequences of arterial stiffening. In addition to their cond uit function, arteries also perform a cushioning function that transforms t he pulsatile flow generated by contraction of the left ventricle into stead y flow at the periphery. Arterial compliance is a principal determinant of arterial blood pressure and is both pressure dependent and affected by vasc ular biomechanics. Other important factors that affect the steady and pulsa tile components of blood pressure include ventricle performance, peripheral resistance, pulse wove velocity, and the timing of pulse wave reflections. Ageing and hypertension are important factors that contribute to reduction s in arterial compliance. important functional effects of this are that bot h the amplitude of the arterial pulse wave and pulse wove velocity increase , causing an early return of reflected waves from the periphery to the aort a. This may boost aortic and left ventricular pressures during systole at t he expense of diastolic pressure, which is reduced. Studies have shown that stiffening of. arteries and the associated increase in systolic and pulse pressures are important cardiovascular risk factors. patients with an incre ased risk of cardiovascular events associated with such changes should be i dentified and receive appropriate therapeutic interventions.