METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ASSESSING THE STATE OF BLOOD VESSELS

摘要

A method and device for use in assessing the state of blood vessels within the human or animal body is provided. A vessel segment (1) is identified for investigation, and at least one blood pressure responsive device (2, 3) is used to obtain pulse volume recordings of different sites, representing pressure at sites proximal and distal to the vessel segment. From the waveform signals obtained, Fourier transform spectra are determined for the respective sites and the transfer function between them is calculated. This is then analysed to determine a clinically significant parameter, such as the integral of the transfer function, and this can be compared with a predetermined value to provide an indication as to whether or not the vessel segment may be at risk. The invention has particular application in the prediction and indication of vascular sclerosis or stenosis.