Reliability of oscillometric central blood pressure and central systolic loading in individuals over 50 years: Effects of posture and fasting

Background and aims: The between-day reliability of oscillometric pulse wave analysis has been demonstrated in a young, healthy population but not in an older sample. This study examined the between-day reliability of the SphygmoCor XCEL in individuals over 50 years. As blood pressure is measured in a range of postures and fasting states (supine/seated, fasted/non-fasted), this study also investigated the effect of these variables on central blood pressure and central systolic loading. Methods: Fifty-one adults (m=21; age 57 ± 6.4 y) were tested on three mornings in supine and seated conditions and in fasted and non-fasted states. Data was analysed as a whole and for normotensive (n=25) and hypertensive participants (n=26). Results: SphygmoCor XCEL demonstrated strong reliability in the whole sample for central systolic and diastolic blood pressures, augmentation index (AIx) and AIx75 (ICC=0.77–0.95). Significant interaction effects were observed in central diastolic blood pressure, central pulse pressure, augmentation index (AIx) and AIx75 (p < 0.05; = 0.10-0.23). Fasting state had a greater influence on central pressures in a seated than supine posture, but a greater effect on central systolic loading measures in a supine posture. Conclusions: The SphygmoCor XCEL is a reliable tool to assess central haemodynamic variables in an older population. It would be pertinent for clinicians and researchers to record central measures in a supine posture to minimise the effects of food consumption. Conversely, the assessment of central systolic loading should occur in a seated condition to minimise the influence of varying fasting states.