Sleep Laboratory
The all-night sleep study is frequently used by sleep physicians to evaluate adult patients when they are sleeping. This laboratory test is extremely valuable for diagnosing and treating many sleep disorders, including breathing disorders at night, neurologic disorders, movement disorders and All-night sleep studies (also called polysomnography).
Patients come to the laboratory between 9:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. on the appointed day. There they meet with a sleep technologist, who will explain and perform the study. The sleeping rooms are comfortable, motel-like rooms with normal (not hospital) beds. Each room has its own attached bathroom and a television. Shower facilities are also available
For studying the quality of sleep, electrodes are applied to the scalp, sides of the head and under the chin, chest and leg. This lets us measure brain waves, heart rate, and eye movements. A sensor is placed by the nose and mouth for measurement of airflow. Belts are placed around the rib cage and abdomen for measurement of breathing movements. A clip is placed on a finger for measurement of blood oxygen levels. Other measurements may be done as required. There are no needles and no pain. In the central control room, the technologist monitors the patient's sleep and general condition. Any problems with the study may be easily dealt with. Patients may easily call the technologist if there is a problem as well.
For some patients who have sleep apnea, the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) are evaluated. Usually these are patients who have had a previous sleep study to diagnose the condition. During the CPAP study, everything is done as for a diagnostic study. In addition, a mask is fit around the nose or around the nose and mouth. During sleep, we attempt to find a pressure level that holds the airway open and lets the patient get a good night's sleep.
Patients generally get out from the study around 6:30 to 7 in the morning. However, if an earlier wake-up is needed, the patient just needs to let the technologist know.
Main field of the activity - breathing disorders during sleep:
- Diagnostics and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea
- Treatment of snoring
- Diagnostics and treatment of restless legs syndrome
All established treatment methods (surgical treatment, positive airway pressure therapy, and oral appliances) are performed by experienced specialists.
Consultations for children and adults if:
- Suffer from snoring
- Have disordered breathing during sleep
- Have sleep disorders
Sleep examinations and re-examinations (polysomnography and respiratory polygraphy) are available.
