Kuulmetoru

Kuulmetoru, also known as a stethoscope, is a medical instrument used for auscultation, or listening to the internal sounds of the body. It is most commonly used to listen to heart and lung sounds, as well as intestinal sounds. The device consists of two eartubes connected to a flexible tubing, which in turn connects to a diaphragm or a bell. The diaphragm is used to detect high-frequency sounds, while the bell is used to detect low-frequency sounds.

Invented by French physician René Laennec in 1816, the stethoscope revolutionized medical diagnosis. Prior to its invention, physicians would often place their ear directly against a patient's chest to listen to their internal sounds. This method was not only uncomfortable for both the patient and the physician but also limited the ability to hear subtle sounds. Laennec's invention provided a way to amplify these sounds and listen with greater clarity and precision, leading to more accurate diagnoses and improved patient care.

Modern stethoscopes are made from various materials, including rubber, plastic, and metal. They come in a wide range of designs and configurations, with some featuring specialized components for listening to specific types of sounds. Despite advancements in medical technology, the stethoscope remains a fundamental tool in the medical profession, utilized by doctors, nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare professionals worldwide. Its simplicity, effectiveness, and affordability have ensured its continued relevance in everyday medical practice.