The sleep laboratory, with a total of 3 recording units, was founded in 1986. All units are video-controlled in order to record patients’ sleep behavior. Two 21-channel EEG machines enable the continuous recording of EEG, EOG, EMG, ECG and respiratory parameters such as nasal and oral airflow, chest and abdomen movements. All biosignals are digitalized and stored on a computer. An additional device records the blood oxygen saturation via an infra-red sensor attached to a finger.
Sleep indices such as amount of slow wave sleep, REM latency, number of sleep apneas etc. are recorded by means of comp.-aided visual scoring.
Our work concentrates on two areas: diagnosis of sleep disorders and sleep research. With regard to the former, consultation hours are provided for outpatients with sleep problems refered by their general practitioners. During an one-hour interview, an anamnesis is carried out and further diagnostic strategies are discussed. Patients also receive information about the basics of coping with sleep difficulties. Diagnosing sleep disorders encompasses ambulatory devices (MESAM recorder, EDENTRACE recorder) and/or stationary recordings in the sleep laboratory (most often for two consecutive nights).
|
