P153 Radial-finger Pulse Wave Velocity as a Measure of Microvascular Stiffness: Feasibility and Response to Nitroglycerin

Background/Objectives: We previously demonstrated a different regional stiffness response of elastic and muscular arteries after the administration of nitroglycerin, leading to an alteration of aortic-brachial stiffness gradient. Regional stiffness of smaller arteries may respond differently to vasodilation drugs. The objectives of this study were 1-to assess the feasibility of measuring arterial stiffness of the hand, i.e. radial-finger pulse wave velocity (RF-PWV) using piezoelectric sensors, and 2-to measure RF-PWV and its response to nitroglycerin.