Loyola University Medical Education Network Loyola University Medical Center

Projections and Auscultations of Heart Valves
John A. McNulty, Ph.D.
Professor
Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy


The surface projections (O) and auscultation points (X) for each of the heart valves are illustrated in three images: All valves are a bit lower when the patient is standing.

Aortic semilunar valve

Note that the surface projection is behind the sternum opposite the 3rd intercostal space whereas the valve is ausculated at the second intercostal space to the right the body of the sternum.


Pulmonary semilunar valve

The surface projection is on the left side of the sternum opposite the left 3rd intercostal junction whereas the valve is ausculated on the left side of the sternum at the 2nd intercostal junction.


Tricuspid valve

The surface projection is behind the sternum opposite the 4-5th intercostal junction whereas the valve is ausculated at the lower left quadrant of the body of the sternum where the "bare area" is.


Bicuspid valve

The surface projection is to the left of the 4th intercostal junction whereas the valve is ausculated at the 5th intercostal space in the mid-clavicular line.

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John A. McNulty, Ph.D.
Last Updated: April14, 1996
Created: September 26, 1994