Valsalva maneuver
[ val-sal-vuh ]
/ vælˈsæl və /
noun
a forced expiratory effort against a closed glottis that decreases intrathoracic pressure, hampering venous return to the heart, and that can be used to inflate the Eustachian tubes and adjust pressure in the middle ear.
Origin of Valsalva maneuver
named after Antonio M.
Valsalva (1666–1723), Italian anatomist who devised the maneuver
Medical definitions for valsalva maneuver
Valsalva maneuver
[ văl-săl′və ]
n.
Expiratory effort against a closed glottis, which increases pressure within the thoracic cavity and thereby impedes venous return of blood to the heart. The maneuver results in changes in blood pressure and heart rate and is used in conjunction with other tests to diagnose cardiac abnormalities and to treat various conditions, especially some abnormal heart rhythms.
Expiratory effort when the mouth is closed and the nostrils are pinched shut, which forces air into the eustachian tubes and increases pressure on the inside of the eardrum.