The CV Profiler is a device for measuring arterial compliance and elasticity in the brachial artery. Loss of small artery elasticity is the first measurable change in the development of arteriosclerosis. Abnormalities in this study presage the onset of heart attacks and strokes, and circulatory problems in the lower extremities.
Abnormalities may be found in patients with hypertension, diabetes or prediabetes, hyperlipidemia, obesity and cigarette smoking, or a family history of heart disease. They indicate a need for immediate intervention to prevent clinical events in the future, such as heart attack and stroke. Lifestyle changes may prevent further progression. Nutritional supplements, including fish oil and L-arginine, may even reverse these changes. Other therapies, such as external counterpulsation, chelation and intravenous phosphatidylcholine, may also prevent progression or reverse the process. Testing should be performed before and after these therapies to monitor changes and determine the need for continuing treatment.
The CV Profiler study is performed in our office. It is a simple, painless and non-invasive study that can be completed in less than 10 minutes.