Korotkoff Sounds (5 phases)

Phase 1: Clear sounds , highest level at which sounds are heard, it represents the systolic pressure.

Phase 2: Sounds are replaced by a bruit (soft).

Phase 3: Loud, sharp sounds.

Phase 4: Sounds suddenly become damped.

Phase 5: Sounds disappear, it represents the diastolic pressure.


In aortic regurgitation, Phase 5 may be heard until 0, the Phase 4 indicates the diastolic pressure, it is recorded e.g. 122/70/0.