Sleep study, simultaneous recording of ventilation, respiratory effort, ECG or heart rate, and oxygen saturation, attended by a technologist
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Sleep Study (Polysomnography - PSG)
Summary
A sleep study, or polysomnography (PSG), is a comprehensive test used to diagnose sleep disorders. It involves an overnight stay at a sleep center, where a technologist monitors various physiological parameters while you sleep, including breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels.
Purpose
The primary goal of a sleep study is to identify sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, and periodic limb movement disorder. Understanding these conditions can help improve sleep quality, reduce related health risks, and enhance overall well-being.
Indications
- Snoring or choking sounds during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Irregular sleep patterns
- Observed pauses in breathing during sleep
- Unusual movements or behaviors during sleep
Preparation
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol on the day of the study.
- Maintain your regular sleep routine before the procedure.
- Remove any nail polish or artificial nails for accurate oxygen measurement.
- Bring comfortable sleepwear and any necessary personal hygiene items.
- Continue taking prescribed medications unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.
Procedure Description
- Arrival: You will arrive at a sleep center in the evening, typically between 8-10 PM.
- Setup: The technologist will attach sensors to your scalp, face, chest, limbs, and a finger. These sensors measure brain waves, eye movements, heart rate, breathing effort, oxygen levels, and body movements.
- Monitoring: The sensors are connected to a computer that records the data. The technologist monitors the signals from another room throughout the night.
- Sleep: You will be asked to sleep as you normally do. The sensors might feel unusual at first, but most people adapt quickly.
- Completion: In the morning, the technologist will remove the sensors, and you can go home.
Duration
Typically, the sleep study lasts one night, from about 8 PM until 6-7 AM the next morning.
Setting
The procedure is performed in a specialized sleep center or clinic designed to provide a comfortable sleeping environment.
Personnel
The procedure is attended by a trained sleep technologist who oversees the setup and monitoring process. Sleep physicians analyze the collected data and provide the diagnosis.
Risks and Complications
- Minor skin irritation from the adhesive sensors
- Discomfort or difficulty falling asleep due to the unfamiliar environment or attached sensors
Benefits
- Accurate diagnosis of sleep disorders
- Personalized treatment plans to improve sleep health
- Reduced risks of complications from untreated sleep disorders, such as heart disease, stroke, and accidents
Recovery
There is no recovery time required post-procedure. You can resume normal activities immediately after the study. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the findings and treatment options.
Alternatives
Home sleep apnea tests (HSAT) are an alternative for some patients. While more convenient, HSATs are less comprehensive than in-lab sleep studies and may not detect all sleep disorders.
Patient Experience
During the procedure, you might feel strange wearing the sensors, but they should not cause pain. If you feel discomfort, the technologist can make adjustments. After the study, there is no downtime, and you can typically return to your normal routine.