The triangle of auscultation is a small inverted triangle located between the trapezius, latissimus dorsi and the rhomboid muscles. Its name comes from the Latin word "auscultation," meaning to listen to sounds within the body. The proper spelling of this term is [ˌaʊskəlˈteɪʃən], with the stress on the second syllable. The pronunciation of the "au" sound is similar to that of the word "out." The "t" and "i" sounds are short and crisp, while the "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "father."
The triangle of auscultation is a specific anatomical area on the back where the respiratory sounds of the lungs can be clearly heard due to the absence of significant muscles or other structures. It is named as such because it is roughly shaped like an upside-down triangle and is commonly used by physicians and healthcare professionals during chest examinations to effectively auscultate lung sounds.
Located on the back, the triangle of auscultation is bounded by three main borders. The upper border is formed by the trapezius muscle, the lower border is formed by the latissimus dorsi muscle, and the medial border is formed by the scapula bone. Specifically, the triangle lies between the lower edge of the trapezius muscle, the inner edge of the scapula, and the upper edge of the latissimus dorsi muscle.
The reason this area is ideal for auscultation lies in the relatively thinner presence of muscle and the absence of major underlying structures like the lungs or bones. This allows for clearer transmission of respiratory sounds during inspiration and expiration. By placing a stethoscope over the triangle of auscultation, medical professionals are able to distinguish and evaluate the quality of lung sounds, including any abnormalities that may indicate respiratory conditions such as pneumonia or emphysema.
Space bounded by the lower border of the trapezius, the latissimus dorsi, and the vertebral border of the scapula.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.