What causes ausculatory gap?

An auscultatory gap is caused by a temporary loss of sound when measuring blood pressure, typically occurring between the systolic and diastolic pressures. This phenomenon can occur due to factors like arterial stiffness or plaque buildup, which can lead to an inconsistency in blood flow. It may also be influenced by the technique used during measurement, particularly if the cuff is inflated too high or released too slowly. Auscultatory gaps can lead to inaccuracies in blood pressure readings if not recognized.