Development and Assessment of an Experimental System for Physiological Signal Studies on the BrainAnswer Platform: A Focus on Chronic Venous Disease in Elderly
摘要
Chronic Venous Disease (CVD) is characterized by the inadequate return of blood from the veins to the heart, causing symptoms like varicose veins, edema, and venous ulcers. Risk factors include age, gender, obesity, and smoking. CVD is commonly assessed using duplex ultrasonography and air plethysmography (APG), which evaluate venous reflux and calf muscle pump (CMP) function. APG remains a valuable tool, measuring indices such as venous filling index and ejection fraction. Understanding CMP dysfunction is crucial, as it is linked with increased mortality and significantly impacts patient quality of life. This study aims to design a pioneer experimental system that integrates photoplethysmography (PPG), electromyography (EMG), and electrocardiography (ECG) sensors alongside a signal capture device and specialized physiological signal acquisition software. This innovative approach is intended to facilitate comprehensive investigations into chronic venous disease among the elderly. By employing a PPG sensor, our apparatus is specifically tailored to evaluate venous reflux at the lower limb muscle pump’s level. Concurrently, the utilization of two EMG sensors positioned on the calves will allow for an in assessment of muscular activity during various heel rise repetitions commonly applied during venous function assessment with APG tests.