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Valsalva using a syringe: pressure and variation
Hilary Sarah Thornton1, Mohammed H Elwan2, Joseph A Reynolds1
1Emergency Medicine Academic Group, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.
Emergency Medicine Journal : EMJ
|July 25, 2016
Abstract
Background:
The Valsalva manoeuvre is commonly used in EDs to terminate supraventricular tachycardia by the patient blowing into a syringe.
Aim:
To identify whether a specific syringe size can be recommended for use in the ED.
Results:
20% of syringes 'stuck' and required high pressures to move. In the remaining 80% of syringes, a 20 mL syringe was the most appropriate size to achieve the recommended 40 mm Hg. Once 'released' plunger position did not make a difference.
Conclusions:
Use of a syringe of any size cannot be recommended if a consistent pressure is required.