Q: What is your opinion of just using pulse oximetry for at-home screening?
Dr. Smith: I realize this is the least expensive screening method, and it’s better than nothing, as the oxygen saturation closely follows (as a rule) apneic events. However, this is misused by many health practitioners. I received a report from an ENT who used pulse oximetry, but with this specific patient, he desaturated to 77% and stayed under 90% for 42 minutes. The ENT stated that the patient needed no further study, did not need CPAP and that an oral appliance was the best thing. In my opinion, that is malpractice.
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