|
|
 |
In Search of Less Painful Glucose Monitoring
|
Two recent reports in the literature offer a glimpse at the possibilities for glucose monitoring in the future.
In Germany, investigators tested a subcutaneous continuous glucose monitoring system developed by Roche Diagnostics. It consists of a microdialysis catheter and a portable glucose sensor, which displays a new glucose value every minute. After testing for three days in 23 patients being treated with insulin, researchers concluded that the device offered accurate measurements and detected hypoglycemic episodes more effectively than conventional monitoring. All patients tolerated the system well; it did not interfere with their daily activities.
A device that uses the arm as a sampling site for blood glucose monitoring was tested in 354 patients from five diabetes clinics. Blood samples were also collected via fingerstick for comparison. Results indicated that the measurements from the new device agreed well with the finger-stick plasma glucose results. Patients responded positively to the test device, with 97% reporting that it was less painful than finger-stick testing. In fact, 60% said it was "painless." In a survey rating ease of use, patients gave it a 5.5 (on a scale of 1 to 6).
Related information:
Glucose control - Monitoring |
Latest - Technology |
Diabetic Supplies - Monitoring blood glucose
Sources:
- Jungheim K, Wientjes KJ, Heinemann L, et al. Subcutaneous continuous glucose monitoring: feasibility of a new microdialysis-based glucose sensor system. Diabetes Care, Sept. 2001;1696-1697.
- Fineberg SE, Bergenstal RM, Bernstein RM, et al. Use of an automated device for alternative site blood glucose monitoring. Diabetes Care, July 2001;24:1217-1220. (Abs.)
|
|
|
|
|
