Reproducibility of oximetry with a static charge-sensitive bed in evaluation of obstructive sleep apnoea

The reproducibility of overnight polygraphic recording with oximetry, the use of a static charge-sensitive bed (SCSB), thermistors and a body position sensor was assessed in diagnosing obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS). Forty-six patients with a clinical suspicion of OSAS underwent a repeat recording. No treatment for OSAS and no change in patient characteristics was allowed between duplicate nights. Between repeated recordings significant correlations were found for ODI4, time spent at SaO2 < 90% and the mean nadir SaO2. Good agreement was found in concordance of classification of ODI4, time spent at SaO2 < 90% and body movements. The combination of oximetry, thermistors, SCSB and body position sensor has a good reproducibility as an affordable screening method in the evaluation of OSAS.