tracheal tugging

tracheal tugging

A slight downward movement of the trachea with each inspiratory effort, resulting from descent of the diaphragm in a person with a low, flat diaphragm. The sign may also be present as a result of the proximity of an aortic aneurysm to the trachea. It should not be confused with the pulsations from a normal vessel beneath the trachea. Synonym: Oliver signSee also: tugging