|
?:definition
|
-
Plethysmographs designed for non-invasive measuring and recording data and graphics (i.e., a plethysmogram) of the volume and variations in volume of the limbs due to the presence and flow of blood in the peripheral vascular system of the limbs (arms, legs, or both) based on the measurement of the volume waveform and amplitude using pressure cuffs.. This technique is also known as segmental plethysmography, pulse volume recording (PVR) plethysmography, and pneumo plethysmography. These devices typically consist of a unit that measures, records, and displays the results (usually in graphic format). They also include compression cuffs, sensors (e.g., pressure, volume), transducers, and signal amplifiers. The sensors are applied to several points (e.g., thigh, calf, arm, wrist) to measure pressure changes in the bladder of the cuff wrapped around the limb, these changes reflect changes in the cuff volume, which is a direct reflection of changes within the limb volume. Lower/upper limb segmental plethysmographs are used to assess peripheral circulation and to assist in diagnosing diseases/disorders related to venous blood flow (e.g., peripheral vascular disease, thrombosis) in the extremities. Lower/upper limb segmental plethysmographs that include detectors and/or flowmeters using ultrasonic (Doppler) techniques are also available; they include ultrasound transducers attached to the main unit. The Doppler study is used as an adjunct to plethysmography to monitor changes within the extremities.
|
![[This page as RDF]](https://research.tib.eu/covid-19/static/rdf-icon.gif){kind=icon}