Corrigan's pulse

System: Heart & Circulation Signs · All heart & circulation signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

A forceful pulse that rises abruptly and then collapses just as quickly — also called a water-hammer pulse.

What a positive finding suggests

Associated with aortic regurgitation and other wide pulse pressure states.

◈ Behind the name

Sir Dominic Corrigan (1802–1880), Irish physician.

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Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.