What is continuous glucose monitoring?
A continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) is an FDA-approved device that records glucose levels throughout the day and night. There are a number of technologies that are being tested but the only approved device — Medtronic’s MiniMed device-can provide up to 288 glucose measurements every 24 hours. The system is used to measure an average blood glucose for up to 3 days, while the person with diabetes continues daily activities at home. How Does the Device Work? First, a tiny glucose-sensing device called a “sensor” is inserted just under the skin of your abdomen. The insertion is quick, and is usually not painful. It’s very similar to insertion of an insulin pump catheter. Tape is used to hold it in place. The sensor measures the level of glucose in the tissue every 10 seconds and sends the information via a wire to a pager-sized device called a “monitor” that you attach to a belt or the waistline of your pants. The system automatically records an average glucose value every 5 min
