Vascular Ultrasonic Evaluation of Endothelial Function in Hypertensive Patients

Objective To determine endothelial function in the brachial artery of patients with hypertension. Methods In 44 patients with essential hypertension (EH),using the vascular ultrasonic technique,diameter and blood flow of the brachial artery at rest,during reactive hyperemia and after nitroglycerin administration were examined respectively. Results The percent change in brachial arterial diameter during reactive hyperemia and after nitroglycerin administration were significantly lower in patients with hypertension than control subjects (6±5%vs18±7%, P 0.001, 17±9%vs28±12%, P 0.05). Conclusion These finding suggest that vascular endothelial function was impaired and nitroglycerin induced vasodilation was reduced in hypertensive patients. [