Frenzel maneuver

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The Frenzel Maneuver is named after Herman Frenzel (German HNO physician and Luftwaffe commander).[1][2][3] The maneuver was developed in 1938 and originally was taught to dive bomber pilots during World War 2. The maneuver is used to equalize pressure in the middle ear. Today, the maneuvuer is also performed by scuba divers and also passengers on airplanes as they descend.

The Frenzel Maneuver is performed as follows[2][3]:

  • placing the tongue on the roof of the mouth, as far forward as possible
  • the back of the tongue is gently moved upward (like when you start to swallow). Often a click will be heard
  • Repeat as many times as necessary till equalization occurs.

By performing this, the back third of the tongue and "Adams Apple" will elevate causing the opening of the nasal cavities and eustachian tubes, thus allowing air into the middle ear and equalizing it to ambient air pressure.[2][3]

This maneuver does not constrict the Eustachian tubes, nor does it over-pressurize the middle or inner ear; it also leaves the hands free. The maneuver can be done at any time during the respiratory cycle and it does not inhibit venous return[4] to the heart. Effort to perform the maneuver is minimal, and it can be repeated may times quickly.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Brubakk, A. O.; T. S. Neuman (2003). Bennett and Elliott's physiology and medicine of diving, 5th Rev ed.. United States: Saunders Ltd., 800. ISBN 0702025712. 
  2. ^ a b c Kay, E. Prevention of middle ear barotrauma (html). Retrieved on 2008-06-11.
  3. ^ a b c Roydhouse, N (1978). "The squeeze, the ear and prevention.". South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society journal 8 (1). ISSN 0813-1988. OCLC 16986801. 
  4. ^ Venous Return - Hemodynamics. Retrieved on 2008-06-11.

[edit] See also