The Muller maneuver is primarily used as a diagnostic technique to look for collapsed sections of airways such as the trachea and upper airways.
Purpose of the Muller Maneuver
Based on the referenced information, the main objective of the Muller maneuver is to identify areas where the airways may be collapsing. This technique is specifically designed to make these potential collapse sites visible, particularly in the trachea and upper airway regions.
Conditions that might involve airway collapse include certain sleep-disordered breathing issues or structural problems within the respiratory system.
How the Muller Maneuver Works
The maneuver intentionally creates negative pressure within the airway system to induce a collapse, if one is prone to occur.
- Patient Action: The patient attempts to inhale.
- Restriction: While attempting to inhale, the patient keeps their mouth closed and their nostrils plugged (often by pinching the nose).
- Effect: This forced inhalation against closed airways creates significant negative pressure inside the chest and airways.
- Observation: This negative pressure causes susceptible sections of the airway, like the trachea and upper airways, to collapse or narrow. This collapse can then be observed, often using imaging techniques like fluoroscopy or during an endoscopy.
By performing this maneuver, medical professionals can visually assess the degree and location of airway collapse under stress, providing valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.
