videopolysomnographische

Video polysomnography, also known as videopolysomnography (VPSG), is a diagnostic procedure used in sleep medicine that combines standard polysomnography with continuous video recording to correlate physiological signals with observed sleep behaviors. It provides a comprehensive view of sleep architecture and event timing by linking brain activity, eye movements, muscle tone, heart rate, respiration, oxygenation, and limb movements with the patient’s movements and actions during the night.

During VPSG, electrodes monitor EEG, EOG, and EMG, while additional sensors track heart rate, respiratory effort, nasal airflow, oxygen saturation, and sometimes leg movements or snoring. Infrared or low-light video records the patient’s posture, movements, and behaviors. The video feed is synchronized with the physiological data to allow precise correlation of events with sleep stages and activities.

The examination is typically conducted in a sleep laboratory overnight, with trained technicians applying sensors and monitoring signals. Data are scored to identify sleep stages and events such as arousals, apnea, hypopnea, and various parasomnias. VPSG is especially useful when nocturnal behaviors must be interpreted in the context of physiological changes, or when standard polysomnography alone yields inconclusive results.

Indications for VPSG include suspected obstructive or central sleep apnea, REM sleep behavior disorder, narcolepsy, parasomnias (such as sleepwalking or confusional arousals), and certain nocturnal events of uncertain etiology. Advantages include improved diagnostic accuracy for complex events; limitations involve privacy considerations, higher cost, potential discomfort from sensors, and the need for a sleep laboratory.