Name of the Procedure:

Receiver (monitor); external, for use with interstitial continuous glucose monitoring system (A9278)

Summary

This procedure involves the use of an external receiver monitor that works with an interstitial continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system to track blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. The monitor provides real-time data to help manage and regulate glucose levels effectively.

Purpose

The Receiver (monitor) is primarily used to provide continuous monitoring of glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. The goals are to maintain blood sugar levels within a target range, prevent hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemic (high blood sugar) episodes, and facilitate better diabetes management.

Indications

• Patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who require continuous glucose monitoring.
• Frequent episodes of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
• Patients who need more precise glucose level tracking for better insulin management.
• Individuals with difficulty maintaining stable glucose levels through traditional methods.

Preparation

• No fasting or special preparation is generally required.
• Patients should ensure their CGM sensors are properly calibrated and functional.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider regarding the setup of the monitoring system.

Procedure Description

1. Setup: The CGM sensor is placed subcutaneously (under the skin), usually on the abdomen or upper arm.
2. Pairing: The external receiver monitor is paired with the sensor to start receiving glucose data.
3. Monitoring: The receiver continuously displays glucose levels in real-time.
4. Alarms and Alerts: The receiver can be set to alert the user of high or low glucose levels.

Tools/Equipment: CGM sensor, external receiver monitor, adhesive patches.

Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable.

Duration

The setup process typically takes about 30 minutes. Continuous monitoring is ongoing.

Setting

The procedure can be performed at home, in an outpatient clinic, or at a healthcare provider’s office.

Personnel

• Diabetologist or Endocrinologist
• Diabetes educator or nurse
• Patient performing self-monitoring under guidance

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Skin irritation or infection at the sensor insertion site.
• Rare Risks: Allergic reaction to adhesive, sensor malfunction.
• Complications are generally minimal and manageable with proper care and monitoring.

Benefits

• Continuous, real-time blood sugar monitoring.
• Improved glycemic control and reduced risk of diabetes-related complications.
• Immediate feedback on glucose fluctuations.
• Potential for fewer finger-stick tests.

Recovery

No recovery time is needed as this is a non-invasive procedure. Patients should follow their regular diabetes management plan and any additional instructions from their healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• Finger-stick blood glucose testing using a glucometer.
• Flash glucose monitors (e.g., Freestyle Libre).
• Pros and Cons: Traditional methods may be less expensive but provide less continuous data. Flash monitors also offer real-time data but may require scanning.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Mild discomfort during sensor insertion.
• After Procedure: Patients can live normally while continuously monitoring their glucose levels. Initial training and adjustment period may be required.

Pain management and comfort measures include using numbing creams or topical anesthetics for sensor insertion if needed, and ensuring proper sensor placement to minimize discomfort.