New method for continuous blood pressure monitoring using speckle plethysmography

Speckle Plethysmography Pulse Transit Time as a Marker of Blood Pressure Changes

Observational National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) · NCT05554315

This study is testing a new way to continuously monitor blood pressure using a special light technique in healthy adults to see how it compares to traditional methods.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) NIH
Locations1 site (Bethesda, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT05554315 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate a novel optical technique called speckle plethysmography (SPG) for continuous blood pressure monitoring in healthy adults. Participants will undergo two clinic visits where their vital signs will be assessed, and sensors will be placed to measure heart activity. The study will compare the pulse transit time derived from SPG with traditional methods to determine its effectiveness as a blood pressure marker. The research will also explore the signal quality of SPG across different skin tones.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged 18 years and older.

Not a fit: Patients with active cardiovascular or pulmonary disorders, or those on vasoactive medications, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this technique could provide a more convenient and accurate method for continuous blood pressure monitoring, improving hypertension diagnosis.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of speckle plethysmography is relatively novel, other studies have shown promise in using optical techniques for blood pressure monitoring.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
* INCLUSION CRITERIA:

In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:

* Male or female, aged 18 or greater.
* In good general health as evidenced by medical history and physical.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA:

An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:

* Any active cardiovascular or pulmonary disorders or use of vasoactive medications.
* History of aneurysm or stroke.
* Pregnant by history.
* History of fainting or seizures.
* An open cut, sore, or bone fracture on or near the hands or feet.
* Known retinopathy, intraocular lens implantation, or glaucoma.
* Any other condition that in the opinion of the investigator would place the participant at unacceptable risk.

Where this trial is running

Bethesda, Maryland

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Blood PressureOptical TechniquePulse Transit TimePearson Correlation CoefficientSpg WaveformSignal QualityNatural History
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.