[Biomechanical factors: influence on cardiovascular function].

Rev Esp Cardiol. 2005;58(2):121-5 121 It is well known that cardiovascular function is characterized by, among other factors, a number of biomechanical indices and parameters, and in turn, depends upon the phenomena that they describe. The article by Bia et al1 published in this issue of REVISTA ESPAÑOLA DE CARDIOLOGÍA assesses these parameters using in vitro techniques, and concludes that they may be of use in the early characterization of degenerative arterial disease. A number of studies have addressed the influence of mechanical parameters at various levels of the cardiovascular system.2-7 Likewise, some clinical studies have highlighted a need for new hemodynamic indices, which can come from an accurate interpretation of the biomechanics.8 The aim of this short commentary is to define and draw attention to the usefulness of some of these parameters, as well as to establish their limitations in terms of clinical applications and basic research. It is worth noting that the purpose of a precise characterization of these biomechanical terms is not the use of complex formulas or mathematical models, but rather to characterize the real response of the arteries in the most simple and realistic way. Mechanical factors can be established at various levels: