Amplitude of radial artery pressure waveform (non-invasive blood pressure analysis)
This test measures the shape and strength of the blood pressure wave as it travels through your radial artery. It helps assess how well your blood vessels respond to pressure changes.
["This test evaluates arterial function and may support diagnosis of conditions affecting blood flow or vascular health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98613-3
- Short code
- SNAP amplitude R radial n
- Synonyms
- SNAP amplitude R radial n
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- nerve-conduction
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is This Test Measuring?
The test analyzes the electrical or mechanical signal generated by the radial artery’s blood pressure waveform. This waveform reflects how your arteries expand and contract with each heartbeat. The amplitude (height) of this wave can indicate how efficiently blood is pumped through your arteries and whether there may be stiffness or resistance.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or unexplained high or low blood pressure. It can also be used to monitor vascular health in conditions such as peripheral artery disease or after treatments like angioplasty.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small sensor is placed on your wrist (radial artery) to detect the blood pressure wave. A device records the waveform as your heart beats. No blood is drawn, and the process is quick and painless.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are compared to a baseline or reference range for your age and health status. Low or high amplitude may signal issues like arterial stiffness, poor circulation, or other cardiovascular concerns. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Amplitude of the radial artery waveform can help identify vascular dysfunction, such as reduced arterial compliance or peripheral artery disease. It may also assist in evaluating the effectiveness of treatments for hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions. Abnormal findings can prompt further testing or lifestyle adjustments.
Short name
Radial artery waveform amplitude
Frequently asked questions
What does a radial artery waveform amplitude test measure?
Is this test painful?
How long does this test take?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy