Arterial Stiffness & Central Blood Pressure (SphygmoCor)

Measures the stiffness of arteries and pressure near the heart to assess cardiovascular risk more precisely than standard arm cuff blood pressure.

Arterial Stiffness & Central Blood Pressure (SphygmoCor)

Table of contents

Basic data

This non-invasive test evaluates the elasticity of your arterial system and the central blood pressure (the pressure in the aorta close to the heart). As arteries stiffen with age or disease, they reflect more pressure back toward the heart, which increases cardiac workload and elevates long-term risk for hypertension, heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

The SphygmoCor Pulse Wave Analysis system uses waveform technology to measure:

  • Central systolic and diastolic pressure
  • Augmentation Index (AIx)
  • Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV)

These metrics are often more predictive of cardiovascular risk than traditional arm-cuff blood pressure readings.

Category: Cardiovascular tests

Level: Intermediate

Usefulness: Medium

Level

Intermediate

While this test is non-invasive and relatively easy to perform, interpreting the waveform data requires a moderate understanding of cardiovascular physiology. It’s typically ordered and analyzed by specialists to refine cardiovascular risk assessments, especially in aging populations or individuals with borderline hypertension.

Usefulness

Medium

This test offers unique insights into arterial health that can’t be captured through routine blood pressure checks. It is especially useful for early detection of vascular aging or in tailoring blood pressure treatments.
Central blood pressure insights

Central blood pressure (measured near the heart) better predicts heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease than standard peripheral pressure.

Arterial stiffness evaluation

Pulse wave velocity and augmentation index reflect arterial stiffness, a key factor in cardiovascular aging and risk.

How it works

The SphygmoCor XCEL device analyzes pulse waveforms from a standard brachial cuff and applies mathematical modeling to estimate central blood pressure and arterial stiffness.
Pulse wave capture

A pressure cuff on your arm records pulse waves as blood flows through your arteries.

Waveform analysis

The system analyzes the shape and timing of the waveforms to calculate arterial stiffness and pressure at the aorta.

Measures

The report includes values that relate to central hemodynamics and arterial health.
Central systolic pressure

The pressure at the root of the aorta — closer to the heart — rather than in the arm.

Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV)

The speed at which pressure waves move through the arteries. Higher speeds indicate stiffer arteries.

Augmentation Index (AIx)

A measure of how much reflected pressure contributes to the total central pressure — also linked to arterial stiffness.

Reliability

The test is widely used in research and clinical settings, but readings can vary depending on operator skill and physiological factors.
Operator-dependent

Accurate placement of the cuff and proper posture during the test are essential for high-quality waveform data.

Influenced by acute stress

Physical or emotional stress can temporarily influence waveforms and central pressure readings.

Limitations

While powerful, this test may not be suitable for all patient groups or may require follow-up interpretation by specialists.
Requires specialist interpretation

The indices (AIx, PWV) are not as intuitive as basic blood pressure values and require context.

May be less accurate in arrhythmia

Irregular heart rhythms can interfere with waveform consistency and reduce accuracy.

Frequency

Suggested cadence

Once every 1–2 years for individuals over 35 or with borderline blood pressure. More frequently if managing vascular aging or known cardiovascular disease.

Cost

Typical costs

Approximately 300–600 PLN per session in private clinics in Poland. Not always covered by public health insurance.

Availability

Where available

Available in specialized cardiology or preventive medicine clinics equipped with SphygmoCor or equivalent waveform analysis systems.

Preparation

How to prepare

Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and intense exercise for at least 3 hours prior. Rest quietly for 5–10 minutes before measurement.

Interpretation

Results should be interpreted in relation to age, cardiovascular risk factors, and overall blood pressure profile.
Elevated PWV or AIx

May indicate early arterial stiffening — even in individuals with normal brachial blood pressure.

High central pressure

Can be a red flag for target organ damage risk and may justify more aggressive blood pressure control.

Alternatives

Carotid-femoral Pulse Wave Velocity

Gold-standard method requiring measurements at the neck and groin — more precise but less widely available.

MRI-based arterial stiffness

Highly accurate, but typically reserved for research or complex diagnostics due to cost and complexity.

FAQ

Is this test painful?

No. It feels like a standard blood pressure measurement but lasts a bit longer.

Do I need a referral?

Not necessarily — some private clinics offer it without referral as part of advanced cardiovascular screening.

Does this replace regular blood pressure measurements?

No. It complements them by offering deeper insights into your vascular health and long-term cardiovascular risk.