Pulse Volume Recording Examination is a noninvasive method to evaluate arteries of the lower extremity.
PVR stands for pulse volume recording. A brachial pressure and arterial waveform are obtained as reference standards. The process is repeated at different stations, including the high thigh, low thigh, calf, ankle, and foot. The segmental pressures and waveforms are analyzed to identify the level and severity of possible stenoses. Arterial waveforms provide especially useful information in the setting of a calcified vessel. This test is one way that surveillance may be performed after a vascular intervention. It can also be used to plan an intervention in a symptomatic patient. It is particularly useful in patients who have renal insufficiency, because their kidney function may limit the ability to safely use diagnostic tests that require vascular contrast administration, such as CT angiography (CTA).
