The Mendelsohn maneuver is a swallowing exercise that:

• A. Prolongs laryngeal elevation during swallow to improve UES opening and swallow efficiency
• B. Strengthens the cricopharyngeal muscle through resistance
• C. Lengthens the duration of the oral phase
• D. Reduces saliva production to prevent aspiration

Answer: (A)

The Mendelsohn maneuver works by prolonging laryngeal elevation during the swallow, which keeps the upper esophageal sphincter open longer and allows better bolus passage. By holding the larynx at its highest point for a few seconds at the peak of the swallow, the cricopharyngeal muscle stays relaxed longer, increasing UES opening and improving swallow efficiency and reducing pharyngeal residue. This is a compensatory technique aimed at improving the pharyngeal stage of swallowing, not a strengthening exercise for the cricopharyngeal muscle, not a method to lengthen the oral phase, and not a strategy to reduce saliva production.