Why is respiratory effort recorded during PSG?

Respiratory effort is recorded during polysomnography (PSG) primarily to distinguish between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central events. This distinction is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. In obstructive sleep apnea, respiratory effort is present but airflow is obstructed due to collapsible airways, whereas in central sleep apnea, there is a lack of respiratory effort due to a failure of the brain to send appropriate signals to initiate breathing.

By monitoring respiratory effort, clinicians can determine the nature of apneic events observed during sleep. This differentiation helps in tailoring treatment strategies, such as the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for OSA, while central apneas may require different approaches such as adaptive servo-ventilation or treatment of underlying conditions. Understanding this distinction is vital for optimal management of sleep-disordered breathing conditions.