Types of Stethoscopes and How a Stethoscope Functions
A type of stethoscope that is used widely today is the acoustic stethoscope. It consists of hollow tubes that lead down to a two-sided chest piece. It is a combination stethoscope with a bell, plastic disk, diaphragm, hollow cup and chest pieces. Through the diaphragm portion, sounds from the chest vibrate the chest piece, creating acoustic sound waves that travel up to the physicians' ears. Using the bell end, vibrations from the skin are what are used to create the acoustic sound waves. One issue with acoustic stethoscopes has been that they have a low sound quality.
Another type of stethoscope that is used today is the electronic model. Electronic stethoscopes amplify sound waves, which are converted from acoustic to electronic waves. These stethoscopes are similar in appearance to acoustic models except that they feature microphones attached either inside the bell or behind the diaphragm chest piece that convert sound waves. They were designed for cardiologists and doctors who need to hear specific sounds in the chest more clearly, such as those produced by the respiratory system.
My personal favorite is the Littman Cardiology III. Littman stethoscopes are durable and very reliable. They are also latex free and lightweight. You can find Littman stethoscopes at the following affiliates. They also have some really attractive new colors and styles!
You can also find 1000's of stethoscope
brands, colors, and styles at www.allheart.com/stethoscopes.html and www.amazon.com/s?ie=UTF8&rh=n%3A3777201&page=1
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