Polysomnography: technical aspects in adolescents and adults.

Polysomnography is a complex procedure that should be performed by a trained technologist. The routine clinical polysomnogram includes the monitoring of EEG, electro-oculography, electromyography, effort of breathing and airflow, oxygen saturation electrocardiography, and body position. Other more specialized studies may include parameters such as endoesophageal pressure, endoesophageal pH, or penile circumference change. Special considerations to keep in mind when studying adolescents include attention to psychological, social, and technical issues. Polysomnography is an essential tool in the formulation of diagnosis for sleep disorders patients and in the enhancement of our understanding of sleep and its disorders.