Formulas to Explain Popular Oscillometric Blood Pressure Estimation Algorithms

Abstract

Oscillometry is the blood pressure (BP) measurement principle of most automatic cuff devices. The oscillogram (which is approximately the blood volume oscillation amplitude-external pressure function) is measured, and BP is then estimated via an empirical algorithm. The objective was to establish formulas to explain three popular empirical algorithms in the literature—the maximum amplitude, derivative, and fixed ratio algorithms. A mathematical model of the oscillogram was developed and analyzed to derive parametric formulas for explaining each algorithm. Exemplary parameter values were obtained by fitting the model to measured oscillograms. The model and formulas were validated by showing that their predictions correspond to measurements. The formula for the maximum amplitude algorithm indicates that it yields a weighted average of systolic and diastolic BP (0.45 and 0.55 weighting) instead of commonly assumed mean BP. The formulas for the derivative algorithm indicate that it can accurately estimate systolic and diastolic BP (<1.5 mmHg error), if oscillogram measurement noise can be obviated. The formulas for the fixed ratio algorithm indicate that it can yield inaccurate BP estimates, because the ratios change substantially (over a 0.5–0.6 range) with arterial compliance and pulse pressure and error in the assumed ratio translates to BP error via large amplification (>40). The established formulas allow for easy and complete interpretation of perhaps the three most popular oscillometric BP estimation algorithms in the literature while providing new insights. The model and formulas may also be of some value toward improving the accuracy of automatic cuff BP measurement devices.

A novel art of continuous noninvasive blood pressure measurement

“…sBP init and dBP init retrieved from finger oscillometry will need a heart level correction sensor as well as an adapted transfer function known from literature 29,37 . The same is true for finger oscillometric algorithms including its parametrization 38 , although a detailed development work including validation will be needed.…”

Cuff Under Pressure for Greater Accuracy

“…Proprietary algorithms are then applied to detect mean arterial pressure, systolic BP and diastolic BP. Mean arterial pressure is conventionally assumed to be the peak amplitude of the oscillometric envelope, but because algorithms are proprietary, the precise method of estimation of systolic and diastolic BP is usually undisclosed [12,13].…”

Smartphones and Video Cameras: Future Methods for Blood Pressure Measurement

“…The upper and lower envelopes of the oscillation are traced as cuff pressure varies from above systolic pressure (SP) to below diastolic pressure (DP). Algorithms then estimate the mean, systolic, and diastolic pressures from the oscillogram (plot of the oscillation amplitude vs. cuff pressure) ( 30 , 31 ).…”