Your Sleep Disorder Diagnostic Specialist

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Diagnostic tests

1.Complete On-site Polysomnography

2.Home Respiratory Polygraphy

3.Complete Pediatric Polysomnography

4.Automatic Titration

5.Manual Titration

6.MSLT (Multiple Sleep Latency Test)

7.MWT (Maintenance of Wakefulness Test)

8.Nocturnal Saturometry Test

For more than 20 years now, the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders has been one of the primary areas of expertise of Biron Groupe Santé. With locations in most regions of Québec, the Biron – Soins du Sommeil centers offer a complete range of cutting-edge services to better serve our clients, making it the leader in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders in Québec. Many companies are active in the area of sleep disorders but cannot offer the variety and quality of services that Biron-Soins du sommeil can.

Here are a few of the reasons why:

• All of Biron’s services have been developed by our medical and scientific management team, directed by the respirologist Pierre Mayer, who is also a sleep care specialist.
• All of our services are subject to strict, accepted protocols that have been developed and approved by our medical management team. There is no place for improvisation.
• All of our tests are interpreted by respirologists who specialise in sleep disorders and come from your region, here in Québec.
• When needed, both you and your doctor can rapidly access the respirologist who dealt with your file in order to ensure the best possible follow up in case of complications.
• The tests and treatments are done by respiratory therapists trained in sleep care.
• Our team is always available to support you throughout your treatment.
• Biron-Soins du sommeil has been duly authorized by Accreditation Canada.

Sleep-related problems can severely affect your ability to function on a daily basis. If you think that your personal situation has become problematic, talk to your doctor who will, if necessary, prescribe a series of tests to evaluate your condition. To get to the bottom of the problem, get an appointment quickly at the Biron – Soins du Sommeil center that is most convenient for you (find the nearest location).

Our sleep clinics offer the whole range of tests necessary to make a precise diagnosis, both for adults and children. Our team of health care professionals specialized in sleep care will be able to help you find out if you have sleep apnea or another sleep disorder and suggest treatment solutions adapted to your specific needs.

Diagnostic Tests

Biron - Soins du sommeil offers several tests to confirm the presence and severity of sleep disorders.

1. Complete On-site Polysomnography

PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED

Description:

A diagnostic test done overnight, the polysomnography records physiological data such as brain, heart, and muscular activity, as well as certain respiratory measurements in order to evaluate the presence of sleep disorders. It is conducted under the supervision of a respiratory therapist or a medical electrophysiology technologist.

When is this test necessary?

This is the test of choice when obstructive sleep apnea (with pauses in breathing) is not evident, yet a sleep disorder is suspected.

Contraindications

None.

Test procedure and how to prepare

• DON’T FORGET YOUR PRESCRIPTION.
• Bring your pyjamas, slippers, and any medication you usually take.
• Arrive between 8:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.
• Upon your arrival, a health professional will show you to your room.
• You will be given a more detailed explanation of the test and will have to complete a questionnaire about your sleep habits (don’t forget to list your medications).

Preparation for test

Several painless electrodes will be placed on your scalp, around your eyes, and on your hands and legs. Your heartbeat and blood oxygen level will be monitored. Throughout the night, a health care professional will ensure that the test goes smoothly, that the data is accurately recorded, and that you are comfortable.
Wake up is between 6:00 a.m. and 6:15 a.m.
There is a private, fully equipped bathroom at your disposal.
You will receive an official receipt when you pay for the test. We accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, or cash.
If you miss your appointment or have not advised us 48 hours in advance that you will do so, you will be charged 50% of the total cost of the test.

Results

Your test will be interpreted by one of our specialists.
Your results will be posted to you and to your doctor approximately fourteen days after your appointment.

Split-night

In certain cases, the test can be done in two phases:

Phase 1 corresponds to first part of the night spent in polysomnography testing.

Phase 2 corresponds to the titration period (dosage evaluation). This involves finding the optimal CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) to alleviate the respiratory events observed in the initial phase.

Before passing to Phase 2 treatment, our health care professional must have observed a minimum of respiratory events as per the split-night protocol during Phase 1 (diagnostic phase).

2. Home Respiratory Polygraphy

PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED

Description

A diagnostic test done overnight at home, this test involves recording a series of physiological data to evaluate sleep disorders. A portable machine measures and records the following: thoracic and/or abdominal effort, heart rate, body position, nasal airflow, and snoring.

One of our respiratory therapists will show you what to do during an appointment before you undergo testing.

When is this test necessary?

This home test is intended to confirm the presence of obstructive sleep apnea. If the test is positive, you will need to have another test to determine the level of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) necessary to alleviate your obstructive sleep apnea.

Contraindications

The test can only be used to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea. The home test cannot be used by confused patients who are unable to manipulate the equipment or whose health is unstable. 

Test procedure and how to prepare

• DON’T FORGET YOUR PRESCRIPTION.
• You’ll have an afternoon appointment that will last 60 minutes.
• You must complete two questionnaires.
• A respiratory therapist will show you how to install the equipment. You will receive an installation guide to help you remember what to do.
• You need to install the equipment when you go to bed and remove it in the morning.
• A minimum of five hours of data recording is necessary to obtain satisfactory results.
• You need to return the equipment before 11:00 a.m.
• You will receive an official receipt when you pay for the test (during your appointment). We accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, or cash.
• If you miss your appointment or have not advised us 48 hours in advance that you will do so, you will be charged 50% of the total cost of the test.
• You will be charged $50 if the equipment is returned after 11:00 a.m.

Results

Your test will be interpreted by one of our specialists.
Your results will be posted to you and to your doctor approximately fourteen days after your appointment.

3. Complete Pediatric Polysomnography

PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED.

Description

A diagnostic test done overnight, the pediatric polysomnography records your child’s physiological data such as brain, heart, and muscular activity, as well as certain respiratory measurements in order to evaluate the presence of sleep disorders. The test is conducted in a soundproof room adapted especially for children, under the supervision of a respiratory therapist or a medical electrophysiology technologist.

If parents wish to sleep over, a bed will be made available. Parents cannot sleep in the same bed with their children because it could affect the results. A private, fully equipped bathroom is at your disposal. 

When is this test necessary?

This is the test of choice when obstructive sleep apnea (with pauses in breathing) is not evident, yet a sleep disorder is suspected.

Contraindications

None.

Test procedure and how to prepare 

• DON’T FORGET YOUR PRESCRIPTION.
• Children must avoid consuming soft drinks and sugary foods before the test.
• Bring pyjamas, slippers, a healthy snack (milk), diapers if required, as well as anything else that will help your child sleep well.
• If possible, the appointment will be made to best suit your child’s routine.
• Upon your arrival, a health professional will show you to the room.
• You will be given a more detailed explanation of the test and will have to complete a pediatric questionnaire about your child’s sleep habits (don’t forget to list any medications).

Preparation for test

Several painless electrodes will be placed on your child’ scalp, around their eyes, and on their hands and legs. Their heartbeat and blood oxygen level will be monitored all night long.
Throughout the night, a health care professional will ensure that the test goes smoothly, that the data is accurately recorded, and that your child is comfortable.
Wake up is between 6:00 a.m. and 6:15 a.m.
There is a private, fully equipped bathroom at your disposal.
You will receive an official receipt when you pay for the test. We accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, or cash.
If your child is ill the day of the test (cough, fever, vomiting, etc.) it is important to contact customer service as quickly as possible to determine if the appointment needs to be rescheduled.
If you miss your appointment or have not advised us 48 hours in advance that you will do so, you will be charged 50% of the total cost of the test.

Results

Your test will be interpreted by one of our specialists.
Your results will be posted to you and to your doctor approximately fourteen days after your appointment.

4. Automatic Titration

PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED.

Description

Done at home, this therapeutic procedure determines the level of air pressure required to alleviate sleep apnea. A positive pressure machine with automatic titration (dosage evaluation) exerts variable air pressure in a facemask and adapts automatically to your needs as you sleep.

One of our respiratory therapists will show you what to do during an appointment before you undergo the procedure.

When is this procedure necessary?

Once obstructive sleep apnea has been diagnosed, this therapeutic procedure is used to determine the air pressure level required for treatment with a CPAP machine.

Contraindications

The home test cannot be used by confused patients who are unable to manipulate the equipment.

Test procedure and how to prepare 

• DON’T FORGET YOUR PRESCRIPTION.
• You will have an afternoon appointment that will last 60 minutes.
• You will have to complete two questionnaires.
• A respiratory therapist will show you how to install the equipment. You will receive an installation guide to help you remember what to do.
• You need to install the equipment when you go to bed and remove it in the morning.
• A minimum of five hours of data recording is necessary to obtain satisfactory results.
• You need to return the equipment before 11:00 a.m.
• You will receive an official receipt when you pay for the test (during your appointment). We accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, or cash.
• If you miss your appointment or have not advised us 48 hours in advance that you will do so, you will be charged 50% of the total cost of the test.
• You will be charged $50 if the equipment is returned after 11:00 a.m.

Results

Your test will be interpreted by one of our specialists.
Your results will be posted to you and to your doctor approximately fourteen days after your appointment.

5. Manual Titration

PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED.

Description

Manual titration (dosage evaluation) is used following a test confirming the presence of sleep apnea. Done in a sleep laboratory as part of a complete polysomnography, the appropriate level of CPAP air pressure required to alleviate the sleep apnea is gradually determined manually. Oxygen titration can also be done. The procedure is conducted under the supervision of a respiratory therapist or a medical electrophysiology technologist.

When is this procedure necessary?

Titration is intended to eliminate as much as possible the respiratory events observed during testing, whether it be apneas, hyponeas, snoring, reduced breathing rate, or micro-arousals by maintaining a normal level of oxygen in the blood.

Contraindications

Titration cannot be done on a patient with low blood pressure, or who is confused or uncooperative.

Test procedure and how to prepare 

• DON’T FORGET YOUR PRESCRIPTION.
• Bring your pyjamas, slippers, and any medication you usually take.
• Arrive between 8:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.
• Upon your arrival, a health professional will show you to your room.
• You will be given a more detailed explanation of the test and will have to complete a questionnaire about your sleep habits (don’t forget to list your medications).

Preparation for test

Several painless electrodes will be placed on your scalp, around your eyes, and on your hands and legs. Your heartbeat and blood oxygen level will be monitored. Throughout the night, a health care professional will ensure that the test goes smoothly, that the data is accurately recorded, and that you are comfortable.
Wake up is between 6:00 a.m. and 6:15 a.m.
There is a private, fully equipped bathroom at your disposal.
You will receive an official receipt when you pay for the test. We accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, or cash.
If you miss your appointment or have not advised us 48 hours in advance that you will do so, you will be charged 50% of the total cost of the test.

Results

Your test will be interpreted by one of our specialists.
Your results will be posted to you and to your doctor approximately fourteen days after your appointment.

6. Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)

PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED.

Description

Diagnostic test done during the day to determine how long it takes subjects to fall asleep. The procedure is conducted under the supervision of a respiratory therapist or a medical electrophysiology technologist.

When is this procedure necessary?

This test is used to diagnose narcolepsy.

Contraindications

This test should not be conducted on patients who haven’t had enough sleep in the days preceding the test, or those who usually work nights and sleep during the day.

Test procedure and how to prepare 

• DON’T FORGET YOUR PRESCRIPTION
• A complete polysomnography in the sleep laboratory should always be conducted before undergoing a MSLT.
• You should be awake by 6:00 a.m. at the latest the morning of the MSLT. The appointment at the laboratory is usually at 7:30 a.m.
• Bring light, comfortable clothing, your slippers and any medication you usually take.
• Drinking coffee or other caffeine-based drinks is not permitted at the laboratory. Have a light breakfast before leaving your home.
• Bring some healthy snacks and a light lunch that you can have between naps.
• Bring reading material or other items to occupy your time, because you will not be allowed to sleep or lie down between naps.
• You will have to have four or five naps during the day at approximately the following times: 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and at 4:00 p.m. if required. The naps will last around 20 minutes.
• Several painless electrodes will be placed on your scalp, around your eyes and on your chin.
• Throughout the day, a health care professional will ensure that the test goes smoothly, that the data is accurately recorded, and that you are comfortable.
• There is a private, fully equipped bathroom at your disposal.
• You will receive an official receipt when you pay for the test. We accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, or cash.

Results

Your test will be interpreted by one of our specialists.
Your results will be posted to you and to your doctor approximately fourteen days after your appointment.

7. Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT)

PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED.

Description

This diagnostic test is conducted during the day, the day after a complete polysomnography. It tests the efficacy of the CPAP, especially your ability to remain awake. The procedure is conducted under the supervision of a respiratory therapist or a medical electrophysiology technologist.

When is this procedure necessary?

It is required to complete a polysomnography with CPAP.

Contraindications

There are no contraindications for the WMT.

Test procedure and how to prepare 

• DON’T FORGET YOUR PRESCRIPTION
• A complete polysomnography in the sleep laboratory should always be conducted before undergoing a MWT.
• You should be awake by 6:00 a.m. at the latest, the morning of the MWT. The appointment at the laboratory is usually at 7:30 a.m.
• Bring light, comfortable clothing, your slippers and any medication you usually take.
• Drinking coffee or other caffeine-based drinks is not permitted at the laboratory. Have a light breakfast before leaving your home.
• Bring some healthy snacks and a light lunch that you can have between naps.
• Bring reading material or other items to occupy your time, because you will not be allowed to sleep or lie down between naps.
• You will have to have four or five naps during the day at approximately the following times: 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. The naps will last around 20 minutes.
• Several painless electrodes will be placed on your scalp, around your eyes and on your chin.
• Throughout the day, a health care professional will ensure that the test goes smoothly, that the data is accurately recorded, and that you are comfortable.
• There is a private, fully equipped bathroom at your disposal.
• You will receive an official receipt when you pay for the test. We accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, or cash.

Results

Your test will be interpreted by one of our specialists.
Your results will be posted to you and to your doctor approximately fourteen days after your appointment.

8. Nocturnal Saturometry Test

PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED.

Description

At home overnight, this test measures the level of oxygen in your blood using a fingertip light sensor (pulse oximeter). One of our respiratory therapists will show you what to do during an appointment before you conduct the test at home.

When is this procedure necessary?

This test helps determine if the level of oxygen in your blood decreases during your sleep. Based on the results, further in-depth testing for sleep disorders can be recommended.

Contraindications

None.

Test procedure and how to prepare 

• DON’T FORGET YOUR PRESCRIPTION.
• You will have an afternoon appointment that will last 30 minutes.
• You will have to complete two questionnaires.
• A respiratory therapist will show you how to install the equipment. You will receive an installation guide to help you remember what to do.
• You need to install the equipment when you go to bed and remove it in the morning.
• A minimum of five hours of data recording is necessary to obtain satisfactory results.
• You need to return the equipment before 11:00 a.m.
• You will receive an official receipt when you pay for the test (during your appointment). We accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, or cash.
• If you miss your appointment or have not advised us 48 hours in advance that you will do so, you will be charged 50% of the total cost of the test.
• You will be charged $50 if the equipment is returned after 11:00 a.m.

Results

Your test will be interpreted by one of our respirologists.
Your results will be posted to you and to your doctor approximately fourteen days after your appointment.

MAKING AN APPOINTMENT

Give us your contact information and we will call you back to plan an appointment.