Scanning our Past From the Netherlands: The Electrocardiogram Centennial: Willem Einthoven (1860–1927)

Abstract

In the period after the discovery of radio waves by Heinrich Hertz and before the invention of the thermionic vacuum tube (now the electron tube) by John Ambrose Fleming, Willem Einthoven invented the cardiograph. The modern version of the cardiograph with all its new electronic advancements is still a basic diagnostic instrument for the medical profession. After finishing his education as a medical doctor, Einthoven would soon follow his ambition to investigate the effects of the newly gained knowledge on electricity and applying the physics of the human physiology, as well as the use of their tools and instruments. Einthoven was appointed professor at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands at the age of 25. Most of his studies were directed towards electrophysiology on human behavior, in particular how to make this science beneficial to the patients; studies on the bronchia and, in particular, on the eye were included. New experiments he undertook were directed toward investigations on electricity within corporal bodies. In 1924 Willem Einthoven was awarded the Nobel Prize for his important contributions to society, including the development of the first cardiograph