Medical professionals are familiar with the term stethoscope. It’s an integrated part of the doctors’ and nurses’ jobs. However, after the introduction of 3M Littmann stethoscopes into the market, the precision and quality of this device have improved a lot. This unique stethoscope offers acoustic features, durability and extraordinary performance.
Littmann is not just a stethoscope; it’s much more than that. Suppose you are also an aspiring medical professional and still not familiar with this particular type of stethoscope. In that case, it’s high time you know about its features, innovations, and different types. Let’s analyse more about special Littmann stethoscopes.
Littmann Stethoscope, Invention and Market Introduction
The Littmann stethoscopes originated in the 1960s. A renowned cardiologist and professor of Harvard Medical School, Professor Dr David Littmann invented this specialised design of the stethoscope. After that, in the year 1967, a new company named 3M entered into the business of Cardiosonics and acquired the market completely. They upgraded the Littmann stethoscope technology and renamed it as 3M Littmann stethoscopes.
Earlier, the stethoscope only served the purpose of cardiology. But after the introduction of 3M into the picture, it became a widespread technology for clinical use. The company then rapidly expanded the business, and this new and improved version of the Littmann stethoscope became everyone’s first preference. After that phase, the particular stethoscope went through various technical upgrades, and we found our latest version of the stethoscope.
Different Types of Littmann Stethoscopes and Their Unique Features
Technical upgradation has given the medical world several types of 3M Littmann stethoscopes, which can serve different clinical purposes. From cardiology to paediatrics, there are unique-featured Littmann stethoscopes that can serve every kind of medical need. The following are the different types of stethoscopes available in the market:
Classic Series Littmann Stethoscopes
The classic series of the Littmann stethoscopes is highly appreciated because of their high acoustic sensitivity, durability, lightness and versatile uses. This design is suitable for all sorts of general checkups and non-critical care assessments. From adults to pediatric care, the device functions smoothly for all kinds of patients and gives accurate analysis. The best part of classic series stethoscopes is that without flipping the chest piece, you can switch their frequency by adding pressure. This is possible because of the tunable diaphragm technology used in the device. There are different types of models available in this series, too.
- Classic III – Classic III or Classic 3 Littmann stethoscopes are one-of-a-kind devices in the classic series. It has the following features:
- High acoustic sensitivity is the main feature of this Classic 3 Littmann stethoscope.
- The dual-sided chest piece helped in checking both high and low frequency sounds.
- Tunable technology is used to check different sounds just by adding pressure.
- The device can be converted to a pediatric side if needed, just by removing the diaphragm and replacing it with the non-chill rim/sleeve.
- Comes with upgraded, larger ear tube binaurals that fit perfectly and provide superior sound transmission.
- The tubing of the stethoscope is Rubber/Latex and phthalate-free and hence eco-friendly.
- The length of these stethoscopes is either 27” or 40”.
- The device is lightweight and weighs around 150 grams.
- Classic III SE – The Classic 3 Littmann stethoscope and Classic III SE have similar features and functionality. The SE term used here symbolises some specialisation used in styling.
Classic III Monitoring
Classic III Monitoring Littmann stethoscopes also have similar features to the Classic III series. Their core values, like dual-sided chestpieces, tunable technology, etc., are the same. But in the later version, monitoring technology is used to attend non-critical environments like ambulatory care, OB/GYN, etc., for rhythmic detection.
Cardiology Series
Another type of 3m Littmann stethoscope is the Cardiology Series. The device specialises in detecting critical heart and lung sounds with precision. It has two varieties.
- Cardiology IV
- It has a dual-sided chest piece, suitable for both adults and paediatric patients.
- The diaphragm size of this stethoscope is 40% larger than the classic III series.
- The bell size of this stethoscope is also deeper compared to the classic III series. The 60% deeper bell provides enhanced sensitivity.
- The chest piece is made with precision-machined stainless steel, providing a non-chilled sensation for maximum patient comfort.
- Master Cardiology
- This type of stethoscope has a single-sided diaphragm, which also has a tunable feature. Pressure can be adjusted for high and low-frequency sounds.
- The chest piece has a hand-contoured agronomics design for acoustic precision.
- Dual lumen tubing technology is used.
- The chest piece has a non-chill rim facility for maximum patient comfort.
- CORE Digital (Cardiology-Grade)
- This model has some great features like cardiology acoustics with 40x amplification, Bluetooth connectivity, active noise cancellation, etc.
- The diaphragm has digitally tunable enhancement for accurate sound transmission with complete precision.
Lightweight and Speciality Models
The next type of 3M Littmann stethoscope is the Lightweight and Speciality model. It has a dual-sided teardrop chestpiece backed by tuneable diaphragm technology for high and low frequency sounds.
- Agronomic tear-drop designs help the stethoscope fit perfectly under bandages, BP cuffs, etc.
- It has a soft sealing earpiece for the comfort of the wearer. Also, a non-chill rim facility provides comfort to the patients.
- This is a latex-free model that comes with an adjustable headset.
Digital and Electronic Models
Digital and Electronic model Littmann stethoscopes add amplification technology with cardiology-grade acoustics for the best detection of noise under complex environments.
- It provides up to 40x more amplification and comes with 7-level volume adjustment features.
- There are noise cancellation and Bluetooth connectivity features.
- Double-sided tunable diaphragm technology is used for high and low-frequency sounds.
- Non-chill rim facility is there for the patient’s comfort.
- A rechargeable lithium-ion battery is there for maximum use, and it can be charged using a micro USB charging device.
Get the Best 3m Littmann Stethoscopes
In the medical field, every piece of equipment should provide accurate results. Littmann stethoscopes feature enhanced design elements to provide accurate noise transmission, facilitating a clearer understanding of the patient’s condition. It is essential to purchase the device from a reputable source. At MedGuard, we supply original 3M Littmann stethoscopes that come with proper warranty and authentication. Most of the medical professionals choose us for our wide range of medical products and superior quality. All the different models of Littmann stethoscopes are available with us. Check out our website and grab all the latest deals on medical supplies.
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