DIAGNOSTIC TESTING SERVICES

SLEEP DIAGNOSTIC TESTING

At Sleep Dynamics, our board certified physicians conduct diagnostic testing services. Our sleep medicine sub-specialties include pulmonary medicine, psychiatry, neurology, and psychology. All tests are performed by highly trained technologists. We offer the latest diagnostic testing technology and the highest level of comfort and care. Our goal is to ensure a successful outcome for the patient.

OVERNIGHT SLEEP STUDY (PSG)

Also called a Polysomnogram or PSG, a standard sleep study in one of our centers monitors the following:

• Brain waves
• Eye movements
• Heart rate
• Breathing pattern
• Blood oxygen level
• Body position
• Chest and abdominal movement
• Limb movement
• Snoring and other noise you may make as you sleep
• Other parameters as determined by the physician

Polysomnography technologists monitor the patient throughout the night. If the patient needs assistance, they can talk to them through the monitoring equipment. The technician can come into the room to detach the wires if the patient needs to get up during the night.

During the study, the technologist may have the patient try a positive airway pressure (PAP) machine for sleep apnea. This device provides a gentle stream of air through a mask to enhance breathing.

During a sleep study, the technologist is in constant video and audio contact with the patient. It is crucial to us to provide a safe, supportive environment with minimal anxiety. Our diagnostic suites promote a relaxing atmosphere and a pleasant patient experience. We offer full-size beds, bathrooms with showers and a light breakfast (such as oatmeal and cereals.) We want our patients to undergo a full sleep diagnostic procedure, wake up and start the day with minimal disruption to their lives.

PEDIATRIC SLEEP STUDY

Also called a Pediatric Polysomnogram or PSG.

Children require special attention when undergoing a sleep study. At Sleep Dynamics, we provide one-to-one care. Every child has their own fully qualified sleep technician to oversee their visit with us; from arriving at the lab, to waking up the next morning. The ‘unknown’ can be more frightening for the parents than the child. Our staff are ready to answer questions before, during, and after the test.

MAINTENANCE OF WAKEFULNESS TESTING

The Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) is a way to evaluate the ability to stay awake during the day. An overnight diagnostic sleep study called a polysomnogram (PSG) is usually required the night prior to the daytime MWT. After the PSG is complete, the MWT testing is spread over the following day. There are 4 tests spaced 2 hours apart.

Patients will be asked to stay awake. Then sensors on the head and chest record brain wave activity, eye movements, muscle contractions, and heart activity to accurately detect if the patient falls asleep.

Our sleep specialists review and analyze the information we collect during the study.

MULTIPLE SLEEP LATENCY TESTING

Also called a “Nap Test”, the multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) is the standard way to quantify sleepiness and diagnose disorders of excessive sleepiness. An overnight diagnostic sleep test called a polysomnogram (PSG) is required the night prior to the daytime MSLT. After the PSG is complete, a series of nap tests are spread out over the following day.

Patients will be asked to try to fall asleep for each nap test. Then sensors on the head and chest record brain wave activity, eye movements, muscle contractions and heart activity to accurately detect if the patient falls asleep.

Our sleep specialists then review and analyze the information collected during the study.