SPHYGMOTONOGRAPH Meaning and
Definition
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The term "sphygmotonograph" refers to a medical instrument used for measuring and recording the arterial blood pressure of an individual. It is a combination of the words "sphygmo" meaning pulse, "tono" meaning tension, and "graph" meaning to write or record.
A sphygmotonograph typically consists of a cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm, connected to a pressure gauge, and accompanied by a recording device. The cuff is inflated to a certain pressure, temporarily occluding the artery, and then gradually deflated while the gauge measures the blood pressure. This allows for the determination of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as the pulse pressure.
The recording aspect of the sphygmotonograph enables the graphical representation or printout of the pressure measurements over time. This further aids in the analysis and understanding of the patient's arterial blood pressure patterns and potential irregularities.
The sphygmotonograph has been instrumental in routine clinical practice, as it allows healthcare professionals to monitor and diagnose hypertension, hypotension, and other cardiovascular conditions. Additionally, it can assist in evaluating the effectiveness of medications or lifestyle modifications aimed at managing blood pressure.
With advancements in technology, traditional sphygmotonographs have mostly been replaced by digital sphygmomanometers, which provide electronic measurements and display results directly. However, the fundamental purpose and principles of the sphygmotonograph remain the same. It continues to play a vital role in monitoring cardiovascular health and aiding in the prevention and treatment of various blood pressure-related disorders.
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An instrument for recording graphically both the pulse and the blood-pressure.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPHYGMOTONOGRAPH
Etymology of SPHYGMOTONOGRAPH
The word "sphygmotonograph" is a combination of several Greek elements. The term "sphygmo" comes from the Greek word "sphygmos", which means "pulse". The root "tono" is derived from "tonos", meaning "tension" or "pressure", and "graph" comes from "graphein", which means "to write" or "to record".
Therefore, the etymology of "sphygmotonograph" can be broken down as follows:
- "Sphygmo" (pulse) + "tono" (tension/pressure) + "graph" (to write/record) = "sphygmotonograph".
In essence, a sphygmotonograph is a device used to record or write down the tension or pressure of the pulse.
