Intra-arterial versus auscultation blood pressure values as a function of cuff width.

Abstract

We compared intra-arterial to auscultation blood pressure values using correct (CCW) or standard (SCW) cuff widths. Intra-arterial values were obtained from the radial artery using a digital monitor. Measurements were simultaneously made by two observers: one recorded intra-arterial values, while the other registered values by auscultation (brachial artery). Systolic intra-arterial pressure (mmHg) values were 125.04 vs. 119.75 (CCW), and 124.84 vs 116.39 (SCW). Diastolic pressure values were 68.72 vs. 73.26 (CCW), and 68.63 vs. 70,56 (SCW). Auscultation underestimated systolic pressure, particularly when SCW was used, whereas it overestimated diastolic pressure, when CCW was used. Auscultation using CCW yielded higher agreement of systolic pressure values and lower agreement of diastolic pressure values as compared to intra-arterial blood pressure measurements