What is the minimum amount of recording time a sleep study may last?

In polysomnography, the minimum amount of recording time for a sleep study is generally recognized as 6 hours. This duration is essential to provide an adequate assessment of sleep patterns and potential disorders. A shorter recording time may not capture enough sleep cycles or stages, which are critical for accurately diagnosing conditions such as sleep apnea, periodic limb movement disorder, or other sleep-related issues. Furthermore, a study of 6 hours typically allows for the completion of at least two full sleep cycles, which include the necessary stages of NREM and REM sleep that are vital for comprehensive clinical evaluation. While shorter durations may be sufficient for certain preliminary assessments or special situations, 6 hours has become the accepted standard for full clinical studies in typical adult populations to ensure the reliability and validity of the results.