Continuous measurements of skin surface oxygen and carbon dioxide tensions in obstructive sleep apnea

We have found that skin surface electrodes for continuously measuring oxygen (PSO2) and carbon dioxide (PSCO2) tensions provide reliable means of determining whether infants with apnea due to airway obstruction during sleep require treatment. Nine patients referred for evaluation of aqnea during sleep were studied. In 6 patients with PSO2 less than 50 torr during sleep, the hypoxic episodes were clearly associated with partial or total airway occlusion as judged by increasing respiratory effort without concomitant airflow. PSCO2 was found to increase during the episodes of obstruction in all 6 patients. These patients were treated with 1. tracheotomy, 2. tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy in 2 patients, 3. bilateral mandibular condylotomies, 4. pharyngeal flap release, and 5. discontinuing topical nasal decongestants. After treatment, all had decreased hypoxia, hypercarbia, or airway obstruction. Two of the remaining 3 patients had no alterations of PSO2 or PSCO2 associated with airway obstruction during sleep. The third exhibited hypoxia and hypercarbia secondary to central apnea. We conclude, therefore, that continuous monitoring of skin surface oxygen and carbon dioxide tensions is useful in evaluating children with obstructive sleep apnea.