Transcutaneous diaphragmatic EMG (DEMG) is an efficient and non-invasive method of monitoring respiratory events.^1,4 In the detection and assessment of respiratory events, we have found DEMG to be equal or superior to thoracic-abdominal movement devices such as mercury strain gauges and piezo bands.

METHODS

We recorded DEMG and thoracic/abdominal respiratory movement simultaneously on 5 nocturnal polysomnograms.³ Technicians scored each polysomnogram using standard scoring techniques.^2,3 Two methods of assessing respiratory events were used: (A) standard PSG montage with mercury strain gauges or piezo bands and (B) standard PSG montage with DEMG substituted for the movement devices. Each technician randomly scored each polysomnogram twice, while using methods A and B in random order.

RESULTS

The correlation coefficient of respiratory events scored using DEMG and thoracic/abdominal movement devices was .914. The graph illustrates the correlation and linear regression of the two methods of scoring.

SUMMARY

A correlation of respiratory events, scored by each method, determined that the diaphragmatic EMG was equivalent to thoracic/abdominal respiratory movement devices in the detection and assessment of respiratory events. Diaphragmatic EMG is a useful, non-invasive method of monitoring and scoring respiratory events.

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1 Votteri, Pace, Reichert, Yates. Transcutaneous Diaphragmatic EMG to Assess the Efficacy of NCPAP. Sleep Research 1990; p.386

2 Keenan Bornstein, S. Respiratory monitoring during sleep: polysomnography. In Guilleminault C., ed.Sleeping and Waking Disorders: Indications and Techniques. Menlo Park: Addison-Wesley, 1982;196.

3 Padilla, West, Kryger. Snoring in Normal Young Adults. Sleep 1987; 10:249-253

4 White DP. Central Sleep Apnea. In Kryger, Roth, Dement, eds. Principles and Practices of Sleep Medicine. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders Co., 1989;516.