Valsalva maneuver
Pronunciation: val-SAL-va
A breathing technique involving forced expiration against a closed airway, used diagnostically in cardiac examinations.
Full Definition
The Valsalva maneuver is performed by attempting to exhale forcibly while keeping the mouth and nose closed, creating increased intrathoracic pressure. In cardiology, it is used diagnostically to assess murmur characteristics, as it decreases venous return and affects heart chamber filling. Most murmurs decrease in intensity during Valsalva, except hypertrophic cardiomyopathy murmurs, which paradoxically increase. The maneuver can also trigger arrhythmias in susceptible patients and is sometimes used therapeutically to terminate supraventricular tachycardia.
Usage
Usage note: Describe patient positioning and duration when documenting Valsalva maneuver results.
In Context
- "The systolic murmur intensified during Valsalva maneuver, suggesting hypertrophic cardiomyopathy." — cardiology examination note
- "Valsalva maneuver successfully terminated the episode of supraventricular tachycardia." — emergency department note