Name/TitleEquipment: Dudgeon Sphygmograph
About this objectA portable Dudgeon Sphygmograph designed to record the arterial pulse as a visual trace. The instrument is made of metal with a compact body mounted on a curved base plate. The base is shaped to fit against the inside of the wrist, where a small pressure pad rests over the radial artery. A hinged frame and adjustment screw allow pressure to be applied to to the artery, while a lever mechanism transfer the pulse movement to a stylus. This allowed clinicians to observe pulse characteristics such as rhythm, strength and irregularity. Missing is the wrist strap that was used to secure it in place during use.
The body is engrave with the initials "JW" which may refer to John Wood, who was associated with the Adelaide Hospital for 38 years. In 1888, he was appointed as Surgical Mechanic and Instrument Custodian.
Manufacturer: Mayer & Meltzer, London
Date MadeCa 1880
Place NotesLondon, UK
Measurements6.3 x 3.6 x 5.7 mm
Named CollectionRoyal Adelaide Hospital
Object TypeEquipment
Object numberAR#1662
Copyright LicenceAll rights reserved