A prospective validation of a simplified Screening model of questionnaire and oximetry for detecting moderate to severe Obstructive Sleep Apnoea in chronic Tetraplegia. (SOSAT)

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Approximately 50% of people with tetraplegia have obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which is a direct consequence of their injury. OSA has been linked to poor quality of life and problems with memory, learning and concentration in people with tetraplegia. Current guidelines recommend that all people with tetraplegia and symptoms of sleepiness undergo a full sleep study (polysomnography) to diagnose OSA or not. However, very few spinal units have access to this expensive and highly specialised equipment, a sleep scientist to perform the test and a sleep physician to understand and communicate the results. It is therefore likely that most people with tetraplegia and OSA are undiagnosed and untreated. This project aims to test whether a questionnaire followed by overnight oximetry (a finger probe that measures the oxygen level of the blood) can accurately detect moderate to severe OSA in people with tetraplegia. If successful, this simple screening test could replace the need for a full sleep study. Improving the diagnosis of this condition will enable many people with tetraplegia and OSA to access treatment for their condition with likely improvement in their quality of life.