Interpretation of the Adult Polysomnogram

Polysomnography provides information on the physiological changes occurring in many different organ systems in relation to sleep stages and wakefulness. It allows qualitative and quantitative documentation of abnormalities of sleep and wakefulness, of sleep-wake transition, and of physiological function of other organ systems that are influenced by sleep. Polysomnography is considered to be the “gold standard” for diagnosing sleep disordered breathing (SDB) and other sleep disorders; however, as with most other diagnostic tests, polysomnography is not ideal, but is rather the best available method to diagnose SDB. Review of clinical history, pre- and post study questionnaires, medications, and technician's comments at the time of interpreting the PSG provides a unique opportunity to correlate clinical and electrophysiological data, and is a good investment of time toward improving patient outcomes and avoidance of unnecessary testing.