The use of combined thermal/pressure polyvinylidene fluoride film airflow sensor in polysomnography

Abstract

The indices used to calculate apnea severity obtained with the combined PVDF thermal and pressure sensor were equivalent to those obtained using AASM-recommended sensors.

Sleep apnea: a review of diagnostic sensors, algorithms, and therapies

“…PVDF consists of a thin plastic film, that when polarized, is sensitive to both temperature and pressure changes, and produces a linear voltage output based on those changes. When compared with the traditional methods of a thermistor and nasal pressure cannula in one study, PVDF had a near unity correlation coefficient for the four indices calculated, including apnea-hypopnea index (0.990), obstructive apnea index (0.992), hypopnea index (0.958), and central apnea index (1.0) (Kryger et al 2013). PVDF sensors eliminate the need to have multiple sensors placed at the same location, as they respond to both heat and pressure.…”

“…In some cases, video recordings have helped to confirm diagnoses when used in conjunction with PSG signals. Even though the AHI limits may be normal, video recordings may show supplemental information about respiratory events such as head movements and arousals (Griffiths et al 1991, Sivan et al 1996, Anders and Sostek 1976, Silvestri et al 2009, Kryger et al 2013.…”