ima

Without an accurate diagnosis, effective treatment can be elusive. A sleep test, or polysomnogram (PSG), is central to receiving an accurate diagnosis of sleep-related problems. A polysomnogram interpreted by a physician certified by the American Board of Sleep Medicine provides the highest quality diagnostic evaluation and treatment recommendations for sleep disorders.

What is a Polysomnogram /Sleep Testing?

Polysomnograms (PSGs) are the physiological assessment of the patient during sleep. During a polysomnogram, a Registered Polysomnographic Technologist monitors the patient and collects data about sleep events, breathing, heart rate, limb movements, snoring, and other indicators of sleep problems. This data is scored and developed into a technical report. A physician who is Board Certified in Sleep Medicine interprets the report and creates a comprehensive medical report with treatment recommendations.

At ima, medical reports are provided to the patient’s referring physician within 72 hours of completion of the sleep test. Our goal is to help patients receive relief and begin treatment as soon as possible.

What is CPAP?

A sleep study may include the patient-specific adjustment (also called Titration) of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This form of treatment is a very effective and widely used means for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. During sleep, this system gently delivers air into the airway, using a mask over the nose that is specially designed with comfort in mind. The pressure keeps the airway open to provide relief from the snoring and breathing stoppages that characterize sleep apnea.

Most patients are able to become adjusted to the CPAP mask very quickly and experience little difficulty sleeping with it on. Our Registered Polysomnographic Technologists are able to help you with the CPAP device and can answer any concerns you may have.
A split night sleep study involves a diagnostic polysomnogram during the first part of the night, and CPAP titration during the second portion.

What is an MSLT?

Your doctor may recommend and MSLT, or multiple sleep latency test. The test is designed to qualitatively assess your level of daytime sleepiness. It is recommended especially for potential cases of narcolepsy. An MSLT is a daytime test performed on the day following an all night sleep study. It consists of 5 scheduled 20 minute nap recordings, 2 hours apart, during which you will try to sleep for a brief period of time. In between naps you will be free to move around but you will be asked to stay awake. A television will be available, and you may also bring other activities to keep yourself occupied.

The Equipment

ima uses one of the most technologically advanced polysomnographic systems available today, Respironics’ ALICE 5® system. This system records and can concurrently display up to 28 channels of waveform data, including electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG) and electroculography (EOG). The Technologist can examine incoming data and adjust individual channel amplitude during data collection. A real-time impedance check can be used to monitor the quality of electrode connections both before and during the study. The system also includes a feature that allows the Technologist to review previously collected data. The ALICE 5® also utilizes two separate and unique programs to meet the collection needs of both infant and adult data.