224
Dynamics
of
the Vascular System
Numerous theories have been proposed as to the generation of the
Korotkoff sounds. Their origins have been a controversial subject
of
research. Some have suggested that they are pressure-related rather than
flow-related (Drzewiecki et al., 1987).
8.1.2.2 Blood Pressure Measurement with the Oscillometric Method
KOROTKOFF SOUNDS
OSCILLATIONS
IN
CUFF
PRESSURE
RADIAL
PULSE
t---.
5
SEC.
Fig.
8.1.7:
Korotkoff sounds recorded concurrently with cuff pressure. Maximum
oscillation in cuff pressure corresponds to mean blood pressure as shown. Radial arterial
pulse distal to the brachial artery measurement site is also shown. From Geddes
(1984).
Alternative to the use of the stethoscope is the oscillometric method.
Marey in 1885 found that cuff pressure oscillated over a considerable
range of mean cuff pressures.
He suggested that the oscillation is
maximal when the arterial wall
is not
stressed
circumferentially
.
Removal of this circumferential stress, provides a basis for noninvasive
