Table 1 Reference values for aortic distensibility and pulse wave velocity level 1 = at the isthmus of the aorta, level 2 = above the diaphragm

Distensibility (10 ^-3 mm Hg ^-1 )

-ascending aorta

11.9 ± 6.22

-aortic arch

9.83 ± 3.92

-descending aorta (level 1)

9.88 ± 5.79

-descending aorta (level 2)

10.93 ± 5.47

PWV (m/s)

3.26 ± 0.53