Korotkoff sounds

Definition

Korotkoff sounds are the noises heard through a stethoscope during the measurement of blood pressure with a sphygmomanometer as the cuff is deflated. These sounds occur due to the turbulent flow of blood as it starts to flow again in the artery after being temporarily blocked by the cuff.

Related terms

Sphygmomanometer:

A device used to measure blood pressure, consisting of an inflatable cuff to collapse and then release the artery under the cuff in a controlled manner.

Blood pressure: The force exerted by circulating blood upon the walls of blood vessels, typically measured using a sphygmomanometer and expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

Turbulent flow: A type of fluid (blood) movement that occurs when an object (like an artery's wall) disrupts the smooth path of the fluid, causing chaotic changes in pressure and flow velocity