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.
Related signs — Heart & Circulation Signs
Browse the C section of the A–Z list or return to the Clinical Signs hub.
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.