06.01.09
LifeLine Teams with AGH for Pediatric Sleep Program

West Penn Allegheny Health System is teaming with LifeLine Center for Sleep Disorders - the region's leading independent pediatric sleep center - to provide specialized sleep studies for children ages two and older.

Starting in May, the LifeLine Center for Sleep Disorders at Allegheny General Hospital - Suburban Campus began offering children and their parents access to one of the country's most advanced sleep study programs.

“When we were looking to expand our services, LifeLine was a natural partner for us,” said Susan Kaczorowski, MD, Interim Chair, Department of Pediatrics at Allegheny General Hospital—Suburban Campus (AGH-SC). “As the region’s leading independent sleep center, LifeLine offers unmatched expertise for our patients.”

Physicians and psychologists estimate that as many as 30 percent of children may have a sleep disorder at some point during childhood, leading to tiredness, headaches and a variety of health problems. That can cause various problems with school, family and friends. However, a lack of resources geared toward the pediatric patient often prevents children and their families from accessing services.

“The new sleep lab underscores West Penn Allegheny Health System’s commitment to fill this critical gap and help the children of this region,” noted Dr. Kaczorowski.

Staffed by a team of registered sleep technicians and a board-certified sleep physician, the LifeLine Center for Sleep Disorders at Allegheny General Hospital—Suburban Campus features state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and friendly, comfortable, hotel-like accommodations for children and their families. During an overnight sleep study, a sleep technician monitors the patient’s breathing, heartbeat, dream patterns, and eye and leg movements with a polysomnogram — a painless diagnostic test.

To put its pediatric patients at ease, the sleep center has been brightly painted and cheerfully decorated. A selection of children’s DVDs and cable television access help keep kids entertained until they fall asleep. Children undergoing a sleep study also feel assured, knowing that their parents are staying with them overnight in the same room.

A board-certified sleep physician meets with parents and their child to discuss the diagnosis and treatment options. Many sleep disorders can be effectively treated with behavioral interventions. Children diagnosed with more serious sleep disorders can be treated with medication, device therapy or surgery. The LifeLine Center at AGH—SC also provides families with patient education counseling.

The new facility at AGH—SC is at the heart of the LifeLine Center for Sleep Disorders Pediatric Program, which is dedicated to providing unprecedented access and services to children. LifeLine, the region’s most comprehensive sleep center, also has pediatric facilities in Brentwood, Irwin and Monroeville. In addition, it offers the largest network of accredited sleep centers with 19 locations throughout the region.

“The new sleep center complements the wide range of pediatric services offered by Allegheny General Hospital—Suburban Campus,” said Dr. Kaczorowski. “We look forward to helping children improve the quality of their sleep so they enjoy better health, increased productivity at school and better interpersonal relationships.”

To schedule an appointment, call LifeLine’s Forest Hills office at 1-877-351-6545 and request the Suburban sleep lab.