Non-invasive method for measuring changes in vascular reactivity
First Claim
1. A method of measuring vascular reactivity of a patient, the method comprising:
- measuring a skin temperature and/or a heat flux from the patient; and
measuring the vascular reactivity of the patient based on the measured skin temperature and/or heat flux.
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Abstract
A method is disclosed for measuring changes in vascular reactivity that seeks to overcome the aforementioned shortcomings. The method is non-invasive and allows for continuous or sustained monitoring of blood vessels. By measuring changes in vascular reactivity, information on endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation may be provided. Parameters such as skin temperature, heat flux, ambient temperature, movement, galvanic response and/or body acceleration may be monitored to indicate changes in vascular reactivity and to provide information concerning endothelical function of patients. Other information such as patient response to blood pressure medications and other types of medications, onset of congestive heart failure and other types of medical complications, and the occurrence of unstable angina may also be obtained.
25 Citations
21 Claims
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1. A method of measuring vascular reactivity of a patient, the method comprising:
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measuring a skin temperature and/or a heat flux from the patient; and
measuring the vascular reactivity of the patient based on the measured skin temperature and/or heat flux. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19)
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20. A method of performing a stress test on a patient, the method comprising:
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conducting the stress test; and
measuring vascular reactivity of the patient by measuring skin temperature and/or heat flux from the patient during at least a portion of the stress test. - View Dependent Claims (21)
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Specification