VectraCor License PWA - Pulse wave velocity describes the speed at which the pressure wave emitted by the left ventricle runs via the vascular tree to the periphery. The arterial stiffness is quantified using aortal pulse wave velocity (PWV) with m/s as a measuring unit. Its prognostic value has been proven in a number of studies and is more important than the classic risk factors such as high blood pressure and hypercholesterolemia.