BP measurement techniques: Clinical review and update

Increased blood pressure (BP) damages multiple organs. Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of end-organ require regular, accurate BP measurement. BP was predominantly recorded using the mercury-based-sphygmomanometer. Recently, oscillometric-based devices have been invented and are commonly used worldwide.

BP measurement methods are broadly divided into Office-based and out-of-clinic (home). The patient at home or workplace conducts home BP measurement, either intermittently (Non-ambulatory BP monitoring [NABPM]) or continuously (Ambulatory BP Monitoring [ABPM]). Despite the variety of BP measurement methods, the ABPM method is the best method of BP recording, especially in unstable (liable) BP readings. NABPM is conducted less frequently in the nighttime, whereas ABPM is conducted day and night and gives more frequent stable BP records. In ABPM, the mean of the measurements is automatically calculated and stored for later use or sent directly to the physician. Furthermore, some people may have an increase in BP at nighttime or loss of the dipping BP character, which increases the risks of high BP complications. Hence, in this comprehensive review, we will discuss the different methods of BP recording, their advantages and disadvantage, and their differences. Scopus, EMBASE, PubMed, Google, and Google Scholar were searched for the related reviews and original articles cited for BP measurement methods and techniques.