High resolution angiometers for the assessment of the elastic modulus

Distensibility and compliance are vessel wall properties of large arteries that determine their dynamic behaviour and play a role in cardiovascular di sease. At present, arterial distensibility and compliance can be accurately investigated using non-invasive ultrasound techniques. Echo-tracking devic es in particular are suited to study local distensibility and compliance of several superficial large arteries. The best-known echo-tracking devices ( Nius02(R) and Wall Track System(R)) are briefly outlined with respect to th eir advantages and disadvantages. These techniques have shown a good reprod ucibility and accuracy. The two devices are complementary and can be applie d to different parts of the arterial tree. The results of the studies done with echo-tracking devices give insight in the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases in different arterial territories. In to the future it may be possible to use local arterial wall properties togeth er with cardiac wall hypertrophy as important markers of future cardiovascu lar risk and as relevant parameters for the evaluation of pharmacological i nterventions.