Patent attributes
Doppler Velocimetry is a widely used method for estimating stroke volume (SV). The accuracy and reliability of its measurement however, is dependant ona) the correct assessment of the aortic valve cross-sectional area (CSA), andb) the maximal systolic velocity integral (SVI).The invention avoids the conventional assessment of aortic valve CSA by using a calibration method: a reference stroke volume SVREF is determined by a method different from Doppler velocimetry, e.g. by thoracic electrical bioimpedance (TEB), or thoracic electrical bioadmittance, measured via surface thorax electrodes (transthoracic approach) or via electrodes located directly on an esophageal catheter/probe (esophageal approach). In the latter case, if esophageal Doppler velocimetry is used, the same catheter can be used for the placement of the electrodes and for an ultrasound transducer. In the case of esophageal Doppler velocimetry, an additional benefit of the invention is that the Doppler catheter/probe does not need to be aimed precisely at the site of maximum flow amplitude, as long as a stable catheter/probe location is maintained within the esophagus.
