Augmentation index and pulse wave velocity in normotensive versus preeclamptic pregnancies: a prospective case–control study using a new oscillometric method

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to investigate whether oscillometric AS measurements are different in pregnant women with and without preeclampsia (PE).

STUDY DESIGN: This was a prospective case–control study in singleton pregnancies that had been diagnosed with PE (n = 46) versus normotensive controls (n = 46) between 2014 and 2019.

In the case group, pregnancies complicated by PE were classified as either early-onset (<34 weeks of gestation) or late-onset (≥34 weeks of gestation) PE and subgroup analysis was performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (Alx), and Alx at a heart rate of 75 beats per minute (Alx-75) were measured using a brachial cuff-based automatic oscillometric device (Mobil-O-Graph 24 h PWA).

RESULTS: In pregnancies complicated by PE, in comparison with normotensive pregnancies, there were significant differences in PWV (p ˂ .001), and Alx-75 (p ˂ .001).

In pregnancies complicated by early-onset PE, in comparison with pregnancies complicated by late-onset PE, there were significant differences in PWV (p = .006), and Alx-75 (p = .009).

There was no significant difference in Alx in either of the analyses.

CONCLUSIONS: PWV and Alx-75 are higher in pregnancies complicated by PE, in comparison with normotensive pregnancies, as well as in early-onset PE, in comparison with late-onset PE.

KEY MESSAGES: Pulse wave velocity is higher in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia.

Augmentation index at a heart rate of 75 beats per minute is higher in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia.

Arterial stiffness assessment is a promising risk-stratification tool for future cardiovascular complications but further studies are required.