Korotkov

Korotkov sounds are the sounds that medical professionals listen for when they are taking blood pressure using a non-invasive procedure. These sounds are named after the Russian physician Nikolai Korotkov, who first described them in 1905. Korotkov sounds are crucial for determining both the systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels and are typically heard using a stethoscope during a procedure known as auscultatory blood pressure measurement.

Generation of Korotkov Sounds

The sounds are generated during the measurement of blood pressure by the sphygmomanometer. When the pressure in the cuff is higher than the arterial systolic pressure, it occludes the artery, and no sound is heard. As the pressure in the cuff is released, blood flow begins to return to the arm, and this is when the first Korotkov sound is heard. This sound, which occurs at the systolic blood pressure, is typically a clear tapping noise. The sounds go through several phases as the pressure in the cuff decreases:

• Phase 1: A clear tapping sound, which represents the systolic blood pressure.
• Phase 2: A murmur or swishing sound as the blood flow increases.
• Phase 3: A louder thumping sound as blood flow increases and becomes more turbulent.
• Phase 4: The sound begins to muffle and soften.
• Phase 5: The point at which the sound disappears completely, which represents the diastolic blood pressure.

Clinical Significance

Korotkov sounds are a fundamental aspect of diagnosing hypertension and hypotension. Accurate measurement of blood pressure is essential for the diagnosis and management of various cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, heart failure, and atherosclerosis. The auscultatory method using Korotkov sounds is considered the gold standard for blood pressure measurement in clinical settings.

Limitations

While the auscultatory method is widely used, it has its limitations. The accuracy of the measurement can be affected by various factors such as the size of the cuff, the rate at which the pressure is released from the cuff, and the practitioner's hearing ability. Additionally, some patients may have conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, that make the Korotkov sounds difficult to interpret.

See Also

• Blood pressure
• Sphygmomanometer
• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular disease