Willem Einthoven

Willem Einthoven was a Dutch physiologist who invented the electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) in the early 20th century. This device records the electrical activity of the heart, allowing doctors to assess heart health and diagnose conditions such as arrhythmias or heart attacks. Einthoven's work revolutionized cardiology by providing a non-invasive, accurate way to monitor the heart’s function. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1924 for his contributions to medical science. His invention remains a fundamental tool in medicine today, helping improve heart disease diagnosis and treatment.