A novel model to simulate venous occlusion plethysmography data and to estimate arterial and venous parameters

Introduction Several models of venous occlusion plethysmography (VOP) aim to detect venous mechanical dysfunctions. However, such models ignore arterial contribution to plethysmographic signal. Arterial resistance is an important factor because it regulates blood inflow through veins. Furthermore, modeling arterial compliance and resistance permits evaluation of arterial pressure throughout VOP protocol. Method This study presents a new simulation model and VOP data interpretation, making it possible to estimate arterial and venous mechanical characteristics. The model was evaluated using VOP data obtained under different vascular conditions (placebo, post-ibuprofen, and post-exercise). Results Estimated mean values of venous compliance were 0.34 ml/mmHg (placebo), 0.33 ml/mmHg (post-ibuprofen), and 0.27 ml/mmHg (post-exercise). The corresponding estimated values of venous resistance were 11.55 mmHg s/ml (placebo), 10.58 mmHg s/ml (post-ibuprofen), and 8.84 mmHg s/ml (post-exercise). The estimated mean values of arteriolar resistance were 132.14 mmHg s/ml (placebo), 123.93 mmHg s/ml (post-ibuprofen), and 95.36 mmHg s/ml (post-exercise). Conclusion The estimated values are consistent with previous VOP model results and with expected physiological behavior. The proposed model can provide further information for studies using the VOP technique including studies involving exercise, reactive hyperemia, mental stress, body temperature changes, and vasomotor substance administration.