Monaural Stethoscope

Description

Monaural Stethoscope

Monaural stethoscope, representative of the early diagnostic instruments used by physicians prior to the advent of modern binaural stethoscopes. This example features a gutta-percha listening bell, a flexible covered tube, and a curved guta-percha earpiece with small chip.

Stethoscopes of this type were commonly employed by Civil War–era physicians for auscultation of the heart and lungs and were standard equipment in both military and civilian medical practice. The materials and construction reflect the practical, utilitarian design of early medical tools, predating rubber tubing and dual-ear designs. a very rare example.

Inventory Number: MED 316