During a preliminary physical examination, multiple diagnostic medical instruments are employed which assist the physician in taking necessary health-related parameters. When it comes to measuring a patient’s heart rate, the use of stethoscopes becomes essential in almost every healthcare facility. A stethoscope works by detecting the auditory signals of cardiac tissue. In addition, it is also employed in conjunction with a sphygmomanometer for the measurement of blood pressure. Among multiple brands, Littmann stethoscopes by 3M Health Care are dominant in the US market. Let us dive into their features and specifications in detail.
Statistics Regarding Stethoscope Use in the US
According to the Grand View Research, it has been estimated that the market size of the stethoscope manufacturing and marketing in the US was approximately 143.42 million in the year 2020. Considering an expected rise in chronic diseases at the global level, a further expansion of this market share has also been predicted. In comparison to the global stethoscope market, the US covers over one-third of all the stethoscope manufacturing. This collective market share is reached by adding up the products being prepared by multiple brands.
What are Littmann Stethoscopes?
Littmann stethoscopes are a product of 3M Health Care, one of the leading medical companies in the United States. Littmann stethoscopes are externally used diagnostic devices with precisely manufactured chest pieces that are effective in capturing even feeble heart sounds. These stethoscopes were first designed by David Littmann in the early 1960s. Soon these stethoscopes started gaining a name due to their superiority in acoustic performance.
Characteristic Features of Littmann Stethoscopes
When a comparison is made based on the features and efficacy of performance, Littmann stethoscopes are proven superior over other stethoscopes from different brands. This can be attributed to the unique features that Littmann stethoscopes possess. These properties and features include the following:
● Littmann stethoscopes are light in weight and compact in size which enhances portability.
● The tubing of the Littmann stethoscopes is flexible and can be bent easily during use.
● The adjustability of the headset is high.
● Littmann stethoscopes are affixed with soft and smooth ear tips that fit perfectly, increase comfort, and eliminate the chances of irritation when the product is used for longer periods.
● In addition, the ear tubes of Littmann stethoscopes are also symmetrical and maintain their shape.
● The diaphragm of a Littmann stethoscope is tunable thus facilitating adjustability. This feature also lets the user hear the sounds with different frequencies without repositioning the chest piece.
● The Littmann stethoscopes also have high acoustic sensitivity which makes it easy to make general as well as detailed diagnoses.
● The internal body sounds, when heard using Littmann stethoscopes, are four times (20 decibels/dB) louder in comparison to those heard from other stethoscope brands.
● Material used for the construction of a Littmann stethoscope is free from natural rubber latex as well as phthalate plasticizers.
● The components of the product, especially the ear tips, are easy to clean and maintain.
● Littmann stethoscopes are designed so that they do not get stained easily. The alcoholic solutions or the skin oils do not affect the product. Moreover, the instrument is also impact, scratch, and chemical-proof.
● The manufacturing company also provides a 2 to 7-year warranty on all of their products. Repair and cleaning services are also provided at the most affordable prices.
Littmann Stethoscopes: types and Specifications
3M Health Care manufactures a wide range of Littmann stethoscopes for different age groups as well as for the diagnosis of different medical conditions. All of these have been designed after careful efforts of their research and development department which consumes a massive budget. Some of these products have been enlisted below:
● Littmann Infant Stethoscope
Littmann Classic II infant stethoscope has a smaller diameter of 2.7 cm and is prepared using latex-free material. The device is also capable of detecting extremely low as well as high-frequency sounds. The product comes with a 3-year warranty and has high durability.
● Littmann Pediatric Stethoscope
Littmann Classic II is a pediatric stethoscope that has been particularly designed for children. Keeping in mind the sensitivity of their skin and tissues, this pediatric stethoscope has a non-chill rim along with a soft-sealing ear tip. The diameter of the floating diaphragm is 3.3 cm. The instrument is also latex-free to avoid the chances of an infection and comes with a 3-year warranty.
● Littmann Monitoring Stethoscope
Littmann Classic III monitoring stethoscope has been designed for use for adult patients but can also be employed while dealing with children. These stethoscopes have utility in facilities like OB/GYN, medical offices, ambulances, as well as general wards.
Moreover, physicians use Littmann monitoring stethoscopes during primary physical examination. The device has a dual-size, stainless steel chest piece which is tunable and has a 5-year warranty. Overall, the Littmann Classic III stethoscope is often considered the best among all other brands.
All of the Littmann stethoscopes mentioned in this article, along with multiple other medical supplies, are available at Health Supply 770 at the most affordable prices. Furthermore, the prices are even lower during the weekly deals they offer on certain items. Do check out the link at the end of the article for making a purchase of Littman stethoscopes along with many other medical instruments.
Conclusion
Among the commonly employed medical instruments, stethoscopes are essential due to their extensive utility. Littmann stethoscopes are manufactured and marketed by 3M Health Care and come in different sizes and types to serve varying purposes.
The most suitable product can be selected by the healthcare provider based on the features and specifications. Littmann stethoscopes are also available in infant and pediatric sizes apart from their standard products.
Special focus should be given to purchasing medical equipment from reliable vendors like Health Supply 770 as only good quality equipment can pave the way towards improved healthcare.
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References
https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/us-stethoscope-market-report
PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.
