A review of blood pressure measurement methods based on Korotkoff sounds

Blood pressure measurement serves as a fundamental physiological parameter for clinical diagnosis and health monitoring, with its accuracy directly influencing the diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes of cardiovascular diseases. Since its discovery in 1905 by Russian surgeon Korotkoff, the blood pressure measurement method based on Korotkoff sounds has become the gold standard for non-invasive clinical blood pressure assessment. This review systematically explores the fundamental principles, technological evolution, clinical applications, and future developments of the Korotkoff sounds method. Through analysis of the five-phase characteristics of Korotkoff sounds, the intrinsic relationship between Korotkoff sound signals and hemodynamics is revealed. Furthermore, by integrating electronic auscultation technology, signal processing algorithms, and AI applications, targeted strategies to enhance measurement precision are discussed. Finally, the review expounds future trends toward intelligent and miniaturized devices, cuffless measurement techniques, and multimodal integration. This work aims to provide theoretical insights and technical guidance for clinical practice and medical device innovation. • Blood pressure is a fundamental parameter for clinical diagnosis. • The Korotkoff sounds are widely used in non-invasive blood pressure measurement. • Moving towards intelligence and miniaturization. • Cuffless and multi-modal integration are the future development trends.