Impact of hemodialysis on cardiovascular system assessed by pulse wave analysis

In individuals with severely dysfunction kidneys, hemodialysis enables filtration of blood but in turn it significantly increases cardiovascular burden. Debowska and colleagues found that pulse wave analysis features (systolic, augmented and pulse pressure) were significantly different at the end of dialysis. The subendocardial viability ratio (SEVR) was strongly correlated with hydration levels during hemodialysis. The estimation of SEVR from the aortic waveform specifically helps inform fluid management during treatment to maintain cardiac function. Pulse-wave analysis parameters are easily measurable and accessible which monitor sudden cardiovascular changes which can help prevent overhydration during hemodialysis treatment.