The diagnosis of sleep apnea syndrome with a portable device. Our experience with 100 cases

UNLABELLED: Portable devices might be an alternative method to diagnose patients suspected for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). We have analized one hundred patients consecutively referred to our especialized out-patient clinic for sleep breathing disorders. We have used a previously validated portable device-Polygraphics CNS-which records thoracoabdominal movement, nasobuccal airflow, ECG, oxymetry, body position, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Sixty patients showed an apnea/hypopnea index (AHI) > 15. Seven patients showed an AHI > 10f plus symptoms suggestive of OSAS. Two patients had an AHI between 5-10 and very high suspicion for OSAS; a subsequent CPAP treatment showed the disappearance of respiratory events and an evident improvement in oxymetric records. Twenty two patients showed an AHI < 5. Nine patients could not be classified and other diagnostic method were deemed necessary. CONCLUSION: A previously validated cardiorrespiratory portable polygraphic device was useful in most cases for taking diagnostic decisions in OSAS.