[Related factor analysis of brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity in patients with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the related factors for the measurement of arterial stiffness by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).

METHODS

The blood pressure and baPWV in 76 patients with OSAHS confirmed by polysomnography (PSG) were measured. Clinical data were collected, and the carotid and extremity arteries were examined by ultrasound. Arterial intima thickening, atherosclerotic plaque formation and calcification, and the morphological changes of the arterial wall were evaluated. The related factors for baPWV in patients with OSAHS were analyzed.

RESULTS

The baPWV was significantly higher in the severe OSAHS group as compared to the low-moderate group (P < 0.01), as classified according to the apnea hypopnea index and the lowest oxygen saturation. Multiple regression analysis showed that the baPWV of patients with OSAHS was related to age, oxygen desaturation index and systolic blood pressure (F = 1.726 - 5.574, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that with OSAHS exacerbations, the baPWV value increased. The baPWV of patients with OSAHS was related to age, oxygen desaturation index and systolic blood pressure. The abnormal changes of baPWV were present earlier than the morphological changes of atherosclerosis for OSAHS patients.