split-night study
A sleep study combining diagnostic assessment in the first half with CPAP titration in the second half.
Full Definition
A split-night study is a single overnight polysomnogram that combines diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic intervention. The first portion (typically 2-3 hours) records untreated sleep to diagnose sleep apnea, while the second portion involves CPAP titration to determine optimal pressure settings. This approach is cost-effective and reduces patient inconvenience compared to separate diagnostic and titration studies. Split-night studies are appropriate when severe sleep apnea is confirmed early in the recording. However, they may provide less comprehensive diagnostic information and titration data compared to full separate studies.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate as compound modifier; emphasizes the divided nature of the study.
In Context
- "The split-night study confirmed severe OSA with an AHI of 52 events per hour during the diagnostic portion." — Sleep medicine report
- "Insurance approved a split-night study given the patient's high pretest probability for sleep apnea." — Prior authorization note