Evaluating photoplethysmography-based pulsewave parameters and composite scores for assessment of cardiac function: A comparison with echocardiography

Introduction This study assesses the utility of photoplethysmography (PPG) as a non-invasive method to evaluate cardiac function, addressing the critical need for accessible biomarkers in various cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure management. Methods By conducting simultaneous echocardiography and PPG measurements on 37 healthy volunteers, we analyzed both traditional and novel composite pulse wave scores to correlate peripheral PPG data with central echocardiographic outcomes. Results Our results show a good correlation between PPG-based and echocardiography-derived ejection times ( r = 0.648, P < 0.001), though Bland-Altmann analysis results reveal that PPG consistently overestimated ejection times by a mean difference of +95 ms. Moreover, eleven PPG parameters significantly correlated with key echocardiographic indicators of systolic and diastolic function, such as left ventricular dimensions, global longitudinal strain, aortic functionality, atrial contraction (MV-A), and ventricular filling pressure (E/e’ lat) with clinical relevance indicated by correlations ( r ) above 0.4 ( P < 0.05). Conclusion The findings pave the way for further studies in various patient groups to explore the potential of PPG in enhancing home monitoring and regular cardiovascular assessments. This work not only broadens our understanding of the physiological relationships between peripheral and central cardiovascular measures but also introduces innovative metrics that might bring some added value to the current standards of patient care by facilitating early detection and personalized management of heart conditions.