By Adam Garcia
Today on diabetic dictionary we will be discussing CGMS. What it stands for, what it does, and how it helps diabetics. We will also be discussing some misconceptions about a CGMS.
A CGMS is an acronym for Continuous Glucose Monitoring System and this is a medical device that measures and logs blood sugar readings frequently during the day and night. It then averages the blood sugar readings.
There are two types: a standalone system and an integrated system (works with an insulin pump).
How do CGMS work?
Using a cannula, a small “sensor” is inserted under the skin. The sensor is placed in the abdomen where it then senses blood sugar (glucose) levels every 10 seconds. The readings are sent via a wireless pager (the CGMS monitor) where the data is recorded. The monitor then averages blood sugar readings every 5 minutes for up to 72 hours before the sensor needs to be replaced. The sensor does not administer insulin and a separate cannula must be worn to infuse insulin from an insulin pump or you will need to continue taking shots.
What can CGMS do for me?
CGMS can pick up on trends that might otherwise go undetected. For example, CGMS technology can pick up low blood sugar readings during the nighttime when the patient is sleeping. It can also evaluate how a person’s blood sugar reacts to exercise, food, illness, etc. Understanding these trends can help your doctor make adjustments in your diabetes care plan to keep you blood sugars under better control while reducing the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Misconceptions about CGMS Technology
If you think that CGMS replaces the need for finger sticks you would be wrong — it does not. Some key points about current CGMS technology include:
- It does not administer insulin.
- CGMS are valuable tools for learning trends, but they do not replace finger sticks.
- You need to wear a separate cannula from an insulin pump cannula.
- The cost of transmitters, sensors and other CGMS-related items can average as much as $400 per month (in addition to your test strips and insulin pump supplies).
- Currently, there is no closed loop system that allows readings from CGMS to calculate and administer insulin accordingly. This still must be done by the patient (although many pumps do have the capability of calculating and recommending insulin doses the patient must still instruct the pump to go ahead and give the insulin).
For more on the CGMS please email us or leave a comment or question below.
