Oximetry
A simple overnight measure of blood oxygen saturation to screen for desaturations suggestive of sleep-disordered breathing.
Overview
A test to measure oxygen saturation in the blood, typically overnight via a small finger sensor usually together with ventilatory polygraphy. Desaturations and pulse patterns can suggest obstructive sleep apnea or other respiratory events during sleep.
Oximetry alone does not replace full polysomnography when a definitive diagnosis or treatment tuning is needed, but it is a practical screening and monitoring tool in selected pathways.
When it is recommended
- Screening for sleep apnea in defined clinical contexts.
- Follow-up on therapy or positional treatment.
- Follow-up on therapy or positional treatment.
- Complement to clinical assessment and questionnaires.
Practical notes
The sensor is worn on the finger for one or more nights, usually together with ventilatory polygraphy. Proper fit and device placement are explained at dispensing to improve recording quality.