Devices

Guest Post by David Kliff, Editor, Diabetic Investor

With each passing day, it’s becoming more apparent that CGM will replace BGM as the standard for glucose measurement. CGM systems are becoming more patient-friendly, i.e. no calibrations, simple insertion, and cheaper too. The data provided by CGM is transformative, leading to improved outcomes. It is no longer a question of if this will happen but when this will happen.

Overview from a presentation at the 2018 American Diabetes Associations 78th Scientific Sessions.

The “artificial pancreas” provides glucose control for non-critically ill patients

Multi-center study compares closed-loop device to standard open-loop system in a home setting.

Hybrid closed-loop (HCL) system combines technology of CGM and insulin pumps, and a personalized, model-predictive control algorithm to deliver insulin day and night.

The FDA approved the 90-day version of the implantable CGM Sensor.

For those who use insulin, accuracy is one of the most important things to consider when using a CGM.

“Simple,” “Accurate,” and “Effective” were the words ADA presenters used to describe Dexcom G6, a new continuous glucose monitor (CGM) system.

(This is a follow-up to the patient who was under the impression he would always need an insulin pump.) It was a "rocky" start at first. The patient had some early morning highs and some unexpected lows, but likes being off the pump. He wears his Dexcom, which he plans to continue with. This has been extremely helpful with alarms during the adjustments to his long-acting and rapid-acting insulins. The endocrinologist knew the patient was extremely sensitive to insulin, so his rapid-acting insulin has gone from using 1-unit increments to 0.5-unit increments instead and is doing well. At this time, the patient wants to stay off the pump, continue with MDI and the sensor. We're still making minor changes, but getting close to goal.

You may wonder which CGM monitor is best for your patients. I know I do. Learn from Dr. Stephen W. Ponder, MD, FAAP, CDE-AADE Educator of the Year, Board Certified Pediatric Endocrinologist, Pediatric Residency Program Director at Baylor Scott & White McLane Children's Hospital and 50 year Joslin Medalist. He also helps people with diabetes through the "sugar surfing" method to empower individuals who have diabetes to live fuller and more satisfying lives.