What does a positive result in Müller's maneuver indicate?

A positive result in Müller's maneuver indicates that the obstruction is below the soft palate. This maneuver is primarily utilized to assess the anatomical and functional characteristics of the upper airway during sleep or in situations that mimic sleep apnea. During the maneuver, the patient generates a negative pressure by inhaling against a closed airway, which can cause dynamic changes in the soft tissues of the pharynx.

If the airway collapses during this maneuver, the clinician can infer the location of the obstruction. If the obstruction is demonstrated while performing the maneuver, it indicates that the structures below the soft palate, such as the uvula and the base of the tongue, are compromising the airway. This can provide important information for the planning of appropriate interventions, such as surgical options or the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, depending on the severity and location of the obstruction. Understanding this relationship is crucial for clinicians in diagnosing and treating conditions like obstructive sleep apnea effectively.