A Valsalvometer Can Be Effective in Standardising the Valsalva Manoeuvre

Hypothesis / aims of study Previous studies have shown that there is a substantial variation in the intra-abdominal pressures generated during the valsalva manoeuvre . This is an important observation because many research investigations use the valsalva manoeuvre to assess other parameters such as bladder neck mobility and degree of pelvic organ prolapse. The potential to reduce the variation in intra-abdominal pressure between subjects has been established by a pilot study using a simple flow tube device modified by a valve release mechanism . This device has been termed a valsalvometer. The aim of this study was to assess the potential of a modified valsalvometer to reduce the variation in intra-abdominal pressures generated by individuals in an attempt to standardise the manoeuvre.