October, 2003
For Immediate Release

3M™ Littmann™ Cardiology S.T.C. Turns Stethoscope Technology On Its Ear
New Technology Provides Better Auscultation

London, Ontario - The 3M™ Littmann™ Cardiology S.T.C. (Soft Touch Chestpiece) Stethoscope is a first in a new generation of stethoscopes from 3M. The latest member of the trusted Littmann family of stethoscopes advances technology, providing even better auscultation.

The Littmann S.T.C. employs patented tunable diaphragm technology. This means that the bell or low-frequency sounds as well as the diaphragm or high-frequency sounds can be heard on a single side of the satin polished stainless steel chestpiece. Controlling bell and diaphragm modes is achieved by pressure on the chestpiece rather than turning the stethoscope over. For bell sounds, light contact is used on the chestpiece. The diaphragm membrane is contained by a flexible surround that actually suspends it, allowing the membrane to resonate the low-frequency sounds. For high-frequency sounds, firm contact pressure is used on the chestpiece. The pressure moves the diaphragm membrane inward until it reaches an internal ring. This ring restricts the diaphragm membranes movements and blocks the low-frequency sound leaving the higher-frequency sounds to be heard.

The improvements in the quality and efficiency of auscultation aren’t the only benefits of the Littmann S.T.C. The unique design of the chestpiece provides improved access to areas that typically have been difficult to auscultate with the traditional circular chestpiece. The stethoscope features a “Soft-Touch” insert for improved ergonomics and a design that allows for an easy to grasp chestpiece that is easy to steer and place, meaning more efficient movement and handling. The headset is also comfortably angled, and is anatomically correct. The patented 3M™ Littmann™ Snap Tight Soft-Sealing Eartips also contribute to user comfort while providing an excellent acoustic seal.

External noises can always be a distraction but with the two-tubes-in-one design of the Littmann S.T.C., tube-rubbing noise is essentially eliminated. Eliminating patient discomfort is also achievable with the non-chill rim on the chestpiece.

Available in two lengths and four colours with a six-year warranty, the Littmann S.T.C. couples acoustic quality with comfort. It’s an innovation that doesn’t miss a beat.

3M is a diversified, international company with a health care business consisting of more than 10,000 medical, surgical, consumer, home health care, dental and pharmaceutical products. 3M Health Care is committed to supplying reliable products and services that make a difference in the practice, delivery and outcome of healthcare. 3M Health Care is a proud member of MEDEC - Canada’s Medical Device Technology Companies. MEDEC is the national industry association representing over 120 medical device and diagnostic companies. Members are dedicated to serving the healthcare community through the provision of high quality medical products and services that benefit Canadians. To learn more about 3M Canada’s Health Care products and services, please visit our website at http://www.3M.com/CA/healthcare.

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3M and Littmann are trademarks of 3M. Used under license in Canada.