Research on heart rate and pulse wave variability using the measuring stand “Rheoplethysmograph RPG-202”

Abstract

Brief background: Assessment of the cardiovascular system by measuring heart rate (HR) is considered the most accessible monitoring method, as it can be performed using traditional palpatory techniques or various methods of electrocardiographic registration, including telemetric approaches. The list of basic diagnostic methods also includes the traditional determination of blood pressure (BP) parameters. That is why hemodynamic indicators are also used today for an objective assessment of the cardiovascular system: stroke volume and cardiac output, vascular resistance and blood flow velocity, which can be achieved using the rheography (rheoplethysmography) method. This study aimed to establish the feasibility of using rheoplethysmography for noninvasive assessment.

Materials and methods: The study used the rheography method and the Korotkoff method for measuring BP.

Results: The study investigated HR and pulse wave variability (PWV) using the RPG-202 rheoplethysmograph, a device designed for noninvasive assessment of cardiovascular dynamics. The study focused on assessing the accuracy and reliability of plethysmographic recordings for monitoring autonomic regulation and vascular tone. Heart rate variability (HRV) and PWV are widely recognized as sensitive indicators of physiological adaptation, stress response, and cardiovascular health. Using the RPG-202, continuous measurements of pulse waveforms were obtained under controlled laboratory conditions, which allowed for detailed analysis of temporal and spectral parameters. The methodology included standardized protocols for data acquisition, signal processing, and statistical evaluation of variability measures. The results showed that the RPG-202 provides stable and reproducible recordings suitable for both educational and research purposes. The device allows simultaneous assessment of HRV and SPV, offering insight into the interplay between HR and peripheral vascular regulation.

Conclusion: The obtained data highlight the potential of rheoplethysmography as a valuable tool in biomedical research, clinical diagnostics, and the education of physiology and medical engineering students. Future applications may include expanded use in stress testing, rehabilitation monitoring, and personalized health assessment.