A Bicentennial Blast to the Past
The Kymograph
The very old and rudimentary-looking kymograph from Jefferson’s archives was one of the most important instruments in experimental physiology and physiology education in the 19th and 20th centuries.
The kymograph—which means “wave writer”—was invented by Professor Carl Ludwig in Germany in 1847. It consisted of a revolving drum wrapped in paper on which a stylus drew to record measured changes of occurrences such as motion or pressure. This apparatus was first used to measure and record blood pressure, and later also used to register breathing and muscle movement.
The kymograph in Jefferson’s archives was employed in the instruction of medical students from 1930 to the 1950s. Today, kymographs have been replaced with modern instruments.
For example, a sphygmomanometer measures blood pressure; equipment such as a respirometer or pulse oximeter gauges breathing; and electromyography (EMG) measures muscle response or electrical activity in response to a nerve’s stimulation of the muscle.
The early devices used to assess medical conditions were instrumental in the creation of the modern medical equipment that has helped diagnose disorders and determine treatments in order to improve lives.
Creating Our Third Century
Make your mark on history. In 2024, Jefferson celebrates its bicentennial year. For our students, patients, and communities, the path forward is clear, and new horizons await. Join us in celebrating this 200-year milestone. The Bicentennial Fund will be our springboard into our third century, allowing us to fast-track innovative research, open doors for promising students, propel clinical care, close equity gaps in the community, and much more.