Pneumograph

Pneumograph

A pneumograph is a device that measures the rate of respiration by detecting the rise and fall of the chest or abdomen. It is a type of plethysmograph that can be used to monitor a patient's breathing pattern and rate. The pneumograph is often used in polysomnography and other medical testing procedures.

History

The pneumograph was first developed in the 19th century by Etienne-Jules Marey, a French scientist known for his work in cardiology and aerodynamics. Marey's original design used a rubber tube filled with air that was wrapped around the chest. As the chest expanded and contracted during breathing, the changes in pressure were recorded on a rotating drum.

Function

The pneumograph works by detecting the changes in pressure caused by the expansion and contraction of the chest or abdomen during breathing. This is typically done using a belt or band that is placed around the chest or abdomen. The belt contains a sensor that can detect changes in pressure. These changes are then converted into an electrical signal that can be recorded and analyzed.

Uses

Pneumographs are used in a variety of medical testing procedures. They are commonly used in polysomnography, a type of sleep study that is used to diagnose sleep disorders. Pneumographs can also be used in spirometry, a test that measures lung function, and in cardiopulmonary exercise testing, a test that measures how well the heart and lungs are working during exercise.

See also

• Spirometer
• Respiratory rate
• Respiratory system

Pneumograph Resources
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