Assessment of the HR baroreflex in human subjects using parametric system identification

Quantitative assessment of the coupling between arterial blood pressure (ABP) and heart rate (HR) is discussed. Traditionally, the HR baroreflex has been studied directly by controlling sensed ABP independent of HR changes. A method is presented that, by combining broadband stimulation and parametric system identification, makes it possible to assess baroreceptor function without disturbing the normal closed-loop function of the cardiovascular system. Preliminary results suggest that the methodology can detect changes in baroreceptor sensitivity in response to the administration of atropine and propanolol