Auscultatory percussion: an added dimension in physical diagnosis

Abstract

The combination of both auscultation and percussion in the diagnostic examination improves both auscultation and percussion and, in so doing, increases the skill of palpation. Auscultatory percussion (AP) is easy to learn, easy to use and requires little time to perform. The size of normal organs and the size of abnormal masses as determined by AP are usually similar to measurements determined by X-rays and CT scans. Abnormalities found by AP need to be evaluated and confirmed by other diagnostic procedures. AP brings increased precision to physical diagnosis and is felt to be a valuable addition to medical practice.