Littmann Cardiology Stethoscope Review

In the early 1960s, a Cardiologist by the name of David Littmann, MD invented the first advanced acoustic stethoscope. This device was made up of an open and closed chest piece which allowed a person to listen to low-pitched sounds with a short single lumen tubing and a spring near the ear tubes to hold them apart.

3M bought Dr. Littmann’s Company in 1967 and continued to sell the stethoscopes under the Littmann brand name. Since then, 3M has continued to improve the stethoscope by designing a superb acoustic sound. At this time the company had two different models of stethoscopes, the physician's stethoscopes and the nurse’s stethoscopes.

In the early 1970, the physician's stethoscope came in 10 different models for adults and pediatric patients and had two different colors, grey and black, and came in lengths of 22 inches and 28 inches.

In the late 1970’s, the famous Littmann Cardiology Stethoscope was created. Over 60 of the world’s best cardiologists came together to invent the ultimate stethoscope. This revolutionary stethoscope had two tubes instead of one, deeper bell to better hear low frequency sounds and softer ear tips.

3M continued to improve the cardiology line of Littmann's stethoscopes by introducing the Littmann Master Cardiology Stethoscope which is the top of the product range today. Also in the cardiology line is the Cardiology III Stethoscope and the Cardiology STC (Soft Touch ChestPiece) Stethoscope.

The Master Cardiology Stethoscope has a single-sided chest piece that features 3M’s tunable diaphrapm which is capable of producing high and low frequency sounds by putting pressure on the chest piece itself. Doctors and nurses are better able to detect abnormalities especially heart murmurs when listening to a patient’s heart sounds.

The Cardiology III Stethoscope is a very versatile stethoscope that is made up of two patented tunable diaphraphms. One is for adults and the other is for pediatrics. The two-tube-in-one design allows for noise elimination from the two tubings rubbing together as design in the previous model. The ear pieces are very soft and seal out background noises.

Features of the 3M Soft Touch Cardiology Stethoscope include outstanding low-frequency acoustics, a teardrop-shaped chest piece that provides both the bell and diaphragm sounds, a 27 inch single-lumen tubing, and tight soft-sealing ear tips.

In early 2000s, 3M introduced the all-new 3M Littmann Electronic Stethoscope. This Stethoscope has a state-of-the-art amplifier. With the superior acoustics and enhanced clarity, it makes it easier to hear difficult heart sounds and low grade murmurs. Inside the chest piece includes a microphone and an amplifier that offers 14 – 18 times the amplification of regular stethoscopes.

Littmann Stethoscopes are used world-wide by doctors and nurses and are highly sought after for their accuracy, dependability, and comfort. Littmann Stethoscopes offer state-of-the-art acoustics, nonchill rims, snap tight soft-sealing ear tips, your choice of colors and lengths, and the best warranty and service programs you can get.

Whether you are a doctor or a nurse, the 3M Littmann Cardio Stethoscope is the perfect stethoscope for you and your patient’s needs.