Impact of bioengineering on noninvasive diagnostics.

Out of a number of important methods used in laboratory angiology, only a limited group was selected to be discussed in this symposium. Phonoangiography is reviewed from the qualitative and quantitative viewpoint for its practical value and accessibility. Various aspects of pressure and volume detection of the eye pulse are discussed from the viewpoint of carotid artery disease and its noninvasive diagnosis, with special reference to oculoplethysmography as well as the Gee-pneumooculoplethysmography. Impedance plethysmography (IPG) is one of the controversial techniques used in laboratory angiology, with its main application currently in the area of diagnosis of venous obstructive disease. The dilemma of application of IPG in the diagnosis of arterial disease is discussed mainly from an engineering point of view. Spectral analysis will be covered in view of the fast emergence of Doppler Duplex scanning as the major diagnostic mode in extracranial carotid artery disease.