Sleep video endoscopy

It is now possible to localise the anatomical collapse of the respiratory tract during sleep. This is thanks to propofol-induced sleep and snoring diagnostics with simultaneous inspection of the depth of sleep while determining brainwaves (EEG) and the use of a computer-controlled medication pump.

The test can be carried out on an outpatient basis and is fully painless. The use of the latest technology is indispensable in this procedure. The anaesthetist puts the patient into an artificial deep sleep within the space of 20 seconds through the administration of a sleeping pill with a short-term effect.

 

The snoring starts immediately. During this “deep sleep phase”, a flexible video endoscope is inserted through the nose into the patient’s throat.

The vibrations of the soft palate, base of the tongue, epiglottis and larynx as well as the snoring sound itself can then be visualised. The countermeasures and the chances of success of the treatment can be determined immediately.