Politzer

Politzer is a surname of Germanic origin, commonly considered to be toponymic in nature. It likely derives from a place name such as Politz or Politzka in Central Europe, with the suffix -er denoting a person from that place. The name has appeared among various populations in the region, including Ashkenazi Jewish communities, and has been borne by individuals in several professional fields.

In medicine, the name Politzer is associated with a method and a device used to ventilate the middle ear. The Politzer maneuver, developed in the 19th century, aims to relieve dysfunction of the Eustachian tube by introducing air into the middle ear through the nasopharynx, typically via a catheter attached to a compressible bulb or bag. The air is delivered as the patient swallows or exhales against a closed airway, allowing ventilation of the middle ear. The device used to apply the air is commonly called a Politzer bag or apparatus.

Notable people bearing the surname include Georg Politzer, an Austro-Hungarian philosopher known for his contributions to early 20th-century Marxist thought. The surname is also associated with physicians in the 19th century who contributed to the field of otolaryngology, the medical specialty linked to the Politzer maneuver. Beyond these references, Politzer individuals have appeared in various academic, professional, and cultural contexts.