General Questions – VASCULAR EXPLORER (VAE)
The Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) is a test method used primarily in the diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), a condition in which the arteries in the legs or arms are narrowed or blocked. The ABI test compares blood pressure measured at the ankle with the blood pressure measured at the arm.
Pulse Wave Velocity is a measure of arterial stiffness, used for early detection of high blood pressure and hardening of the arteries. The VASCULAR EXPLORER automatically measures central and central-peripheral pulse wave velocities using blood pressure cuffs.
The Augmentation Index is a ratio calculated from the blood pressure wave form. It is a measure of wave reflection and arterial stiffness. The VASCULAR EXPLORER determines the brachial and the aortic Augmentation Index in suprasystolic pressure based on the stop-flow method (brachial).
Yes, both devices operate in the field of diagnosis of cardiovascular functions. Patients with peripheral arterial problems (e.g. peripheral artery occlusive disease (PAOD)) or high blood pressure have an increased risk of coronary heart disease.
The VASCULAR EXPLORER (VAE) Device
The VASCULAR EXPLORER tests arterial stiffness and peripheral arterial disease (“claudication”) using various parameters.
The GDT interface allows the VASCULAR EXPLORER a bidirectional communication with the doctor’s office IT system. This communication would typically run automatically in the background.
No, the test with the VASCULAR EXPLORER is currently an IGeL (self-pay) service. For private patients, the insurance often covers the costs.
Yes, there are billing codes for the individual examination with the VASCULAR EXPLORER: Section 635 (photoelectric volume pulse letters at least 4 points), section 637 (pulse transit time determination) and section 643 (peripheral arterial pressure measurement).
The test with the VASCULAR EXPLORER is 100% non-invasive, automatic and quick. The results are generated automatically and correlate highly with traditional gold standards. In addition, the test can be delegated to wider medical staff.
Diagnostic Queries
The Ankle Brachial Index (ABI), the Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) in different vessel segments, the Augmentation Index (AIx), the central blood pressure and the blood pressure in all four extremities provide an overview of the arterial vascular status of the patient.
Yes, the test is carried out non-invasively, using blood pressure cuffs on arms and legs and SpO2 sensors on fingers and toes.
Yes, in addition to the detailed analysis for the medical professional, the results are presented in coloured bar graphs, understandable for the patient at first glance, providing an ideal basis for a doctor-patient discussion.
The correlation between the time-consuming Doppler examination and the photoplethysmographically determined ABI of the VASCULAR EXPLORER is very high at 93%. More detailed information can be found under “Study overview”.
Immediately after the test, a complete automatic diagnosis is available to the medical professional, who can add to it manually.
Application
The software is intuitive and the test can be delegated. The operator is guided through the individual stages of the process by the system and the sequences are explained.
As part of an introduction into the device, operating the software and application of the cuffs will be practiced.
The test takes no more than 3 to 4 minutes per patient.
The test of pulse wave velocity and augmentation index can be done while seated, which will further accelerate the test process.
For about 10 minutes prior to the test, the patient should lie down or sit and relax. The patient should not take any stimulants (coffee, tobacco …) 2-3 hours before the test, as these may affect the blood pressure values.