FAQs About Sleep Disorders | CSMA

Comprehensive Sleep Medicine Associates, PA (CSMA) Mission Statement:

Our mission is to provide a comprehensive approach for high-quality-care of our patients, ranging from newborns to the elderly.

CSMA sets the Platinum Standard in providing care to our patients with sleep disorders. We utilize diagnostic testing in a variety of settings; from home, hospital or in the laboratory, with procedures that are above and beyond industry standards. This is critical in establishing the proper diagnosis in the most difficult patients.

We are committed to maintaining excellence, respect, and integrity in all aspects of our operations with patients and with health care professionals.

What is the PES?

The PES is a method of measuring the effort of breathing. It stands for Pressure in the Esophagus and it measures exactly that, the pressure in the esophagus. As a person increases the effort of breathing there is a corresponding increase in the vacuum created within the chest (negative pressure) and this is measured by a catheter in the esophagus. This is the most reliable method of measuring the effort of breathing during sleep. Disorders such as the Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome in many patients can only be accurately diagnosed with the PES.
Why would a patient need the PES?

Some patients have breathing problems that are not accurately detected using the standard methods of sleep testing. Using the PES provides a more accurate method of breathing measurement and it is sometimes necessary in order to establish a proper diagnosis. See a video of pediatric PES here: Pediatric PES placement
What is Video EEG monitoring?

Video EEG monitoring is an extended type of EEG (brain wave measurement), with about 16 EEG electrodes placed on the scalp. This provides a more detailed assessment of brain wave activity and is needed to properly assess the brain waves when there is a concern of possible seizures. Routine sleep testing does not provide enough EEG channels to properly evaluate for seizure events.
What is Board Certification in Sleep Medicine?

In order to demonstrate proper training in Sleep Medicine a physician should take the Sleep Board exam. Many doctors who are providing sleep testing services to patients are NOT board certified as sleep specialists.