What is the standard minimum duration of continuous monitoring for a polysomnography study?

The standard minimum duration of continuous monitoring for a polysomnography study is at least 6 hours of sleep data. This duration is significant because it allows for the collection of comprehensive information about the patient's sleep architecture, including different sleep stages, potential sleep disorders, and any events such as apnea or hypopnea. Having a minimum of 6 hours ensures that the study can capture enough variability in sleep patterns while also increasing the likelihood of observing clinically relevant events. This duration helps clinicians make informed decisions about the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders, as a shorter study may not provide a complete picture of the patient's sleep health.