Unravelling unique qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the surface submentalis EMG in OSA polysomnograms

Abstract

The functional integrity of genioglossus and suprahyoid submentalis muscles plays an important role in upper airway patency. A combination of inadequate genioglossal function and UA associated anatomy and physiology underlies obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). The gold standard for diagnosing OSA is polysomnography that provides important physiological information. Although nocturnal laryngospasm, epilepsy, or parasomnias may be missed in a one-night recording, however, surface submental EMG (sSMEMG) is invariably present in every polysomnogram. This study has assessed the polysomnographic sSMEMG, both qualitatively and quantitatively, during hypopneas in controls (AHI 5 and 10) and OSA patient..