CPT® Code 95808

Polysomnography, as defined by CPT® Code 95808, is a comprehensive sleep study conducted to assess various sleep disorders. This procedure involves sleep staging, which is the classification of different sleep phases, and is performed by a trained sleep technologist. The primary purpose of polysomnography is to evaluate and diagnose a range of sleep-related conditions, including but not limited to sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, sleepwalking, restless leg syndrome, and other periodic movements that occur during sleep. During the study, the patient arrives at the sleep center in the evening, where the environment is controlled to facilitate accurate monitoring. Sleep staging is achieved through the use of several diagnostic tools, including electroencephalography (EEG) to measure brain activity, electro-oculography (EOG) to track eye movements, and electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle tone. The EEG is conducted using one to four electrodes placed on the scalp, while the EOG involves electrodes positioned around the eyes to capture eye movement. Additionally, a submental EMG is utilized by placing an electrode under the chin to monitor muscle activity. Beyond sleep staging, the study may also include the recording of one to three additional parameters of sleep, such as heart rate and rhythm, airflow, respiratory effort, gas exchange metrics, extremity muscle activity, and other relevant physiological data. The room is kept dark to promote natural sleep, and the technologist records brain activity, eye movements, and muscle tone throughout the night. After the completion of the study, the physician reviews the collected data and provides a detailed written interpretation of the results, which is essential for diagnosing any identified sleep disorders.