METHOD, APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR THE PERFORMANCE OF VALSALVA MANEUVERS

摘要

Methods, apparatus and systems for precisely controlling a Valsalva maneuver and the timing thereof in conjunction with testing a patient for a cardiac shunt, and for ensuring that a patient performing a Valsalva maneuver creates a required pressure using their diaphragm. Embodiments of a Valsalva maneuver mouthpiece assembly are also disclosed for use with the invention methods, apparatus and systems. The mouthpiece assembly is adapted to selectively operate between a state that produces resistance to the exhalation pressure of a patient into the mouthpiece and a state wherein the pressure resistance is rapidly removed so as to cause an involuntary exhalation of the air in the patient's lungs at a time of desired Valsalva maneuver release.

主权项

1. A Valsalva maneuver control device, comprising:
a mouthpiece assembly having a first end for insertion into the mouth of a patient and a second end for connection to a vacuum/pressurization assembly; a solenoid-driven vacuum/pressurization assembly connected, by tubing, to the second end of the mouthpiece assembly; a controller for operating the solenoid-driven vacuum/pressurization assembly to either provide pressure resistance against air exhaled into the mouthpiece assembly by the patient or to allow said air to pass therethrough, the controller including a timer; and a monitor having a display for guiding the patient through performance of the Valsalva maneuver; wherein the controller is operative to actuate the vacuum/pressurization assembly to rapidly discontinue the pressure resistance against air exhaled into the mouthpiece assembly by the patient as directed by the timer so as to end the Valsalva maneuver at a desired time.