Abstract
Our research program on upper airway dynamics during neonatal apneas utilizes polysomnographic recordings in non-sedated newborn lamb. Standard equipment, however, consists of numerous sensors attached to the lamb and requires animal restraint that disrupts sleep and prevents development of normal, spontaneous apneas. In order to perform recordings in more natural conditions, we have recently develop a radiotelemetry equipment composed of an implantable 8 channel transmitter and a FM receiver. The transmitter (23× 35 × 8 mm) is supplied with a lithium battery connected in series with a magnetically activated switch to extend battery life. Studied biopotentials (EEG, EOG, EMG, nasal flow) can be transmitted to a maximal distance of 8 m. The aim of the present study was to validate this telemetry equipment in vivo. Five non-sedated lambs, aged 5 to 25 days, were studied. The first validation step was to record each biopotential simultaneously by the standard equipment and by telemetry. Results obtained confirmed the reliability and reproducibility of the signals transmitted by telemetry. The second validation step was to test the usefulness of the telemetry equipment for repeated and simultaneous recording of several signals in one lamb (EEG, EOG, ECG, diaphragm EMG, pharyngeal and laryngeal constrictor muscle EMG). Results obtained confirmed the possibility to record signals during more than 30 days. Moreover, we were able to record longer sleep periods (especially REM sleep) with more spontaneous central apneas. In conclusion, radiotelemetry is an exciting tool for research on neonatal apneas (including fetal lamb in utero, preterm or term newborn lamb). A Sa02 sensor is being developped and will soon be added. Finally, radiotelemetry has several potential clinical applications, including cardiorespiratory home monitoring of infants at risk for sudden infant death syndrome, and adult or children polysomnographic studies. Funded by MRC 7137.
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