Kymograph
Kymograph
Kymograph (pronunciation: /ˈkɪməˌɡræf/), from the Greek words kyma meaning "wave" and graphein meaning "to write", is a device that graphically records physiological movements such as blood pressure or heart rate.
History
The kymograph was invented in the 19th century by German physiologist Carl Ludwig. It was initially used to record changes in blood pressure and volume. The device has since been adapted for various other uses in the field of physiology and pharmacology.
Function
A kymograph consists of a rotating drum wrapped with a sheet of paper. A stylus or pen is attached to the part of the body being studied, and as the drum rotates, the pen traces a line on the paper, creating a graphical record of the physiological activity.
Types of Kymographs
There are several types of kymographs, including the smoke drum kymograph, the electric kymograph, and the oscillograph. Each type has its own specific uses and advantages.
Related Terms
- Physiology: The study of the functions of living organisms and their parts.
- Pharmacology: The branch of medicine concerned with the uses, effects, and modes of action of drugs.
- Blood pressure: The pressure of the blood in the circulatory system, often measured for diagnosis since it is closely related to the force and rate of the heartbeat and the diameter and elasticity of the arterial walls.
- Heart rate: The speed of the heartbeat measured by the number of contractions (beats) of the heart per minute (bpm).
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Kymograph
- Wikipedia's article - Kymograph
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