Measuring exercise systolic BP using finger laser doppler in kids

Project Overview

We currently use simple auscultory-cuff method to measure BP during treadmill stress testing in adults and kids. In younger kids, 6-12 yr old however it is often difficult to hear the peak systolic sound that defines systolic pressure. Laser Doppler sampling from 1st finger or thumb at rest gives nice pulsed signal that can be used with BP cuff to find peak systolic BP equivalent. ( We use similar technique now using ultrasound Doppler to measure arm and leg systolic pressures).

The problem is that laser Doppler signals are motion sensitive.
Luckily when we do exercise BPs with kids on treadmill, we hold the arm up off the treadmill.

We have created a stabilizing splint that holds a laser Doppler probe in place on the index finger, thus reducing noise activity from body movement.