This diagnostic procedure involves the continuous monitoring of a patient’s blood oxygen saturation levels while they sleep. A small device, typically attached to a fingertip or earlobe, uses light to measure the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is carrying oxygen. The data collected is then recorded and analyzed to identify any significant drops in oxygen levels during the night. For example, a patient suspected of having sleep apnea might undergo this evaluation to determine the severity and frequency of desaturation events.
This non-invasive assessment plays a crucial role in identifying respiratory disturbances that occur during sleep. Its benefits include early detection of conditions like sleep apnea, which can lead to various cardiovascular and other health complications if left untreated. Historically, this type of monitoring provided a simpler and more accessible alternative to polysomnography, particularly in situations where full sleep lab studies are not readily available or appropriate.
