Using CGMS software, graphs and a statistical report displaying glucose values from the patient's 72 hour period of use are produced. Sensor values, meter fingerstick measurements and important events entered into the Monitor during the 72 hours will be displayed in the report. Presented within the report are both 'Modal Day' graphs and statistics that show each individual day's results as well. The patient and physician can use the information in the reports to assess diabetes management and treatment changes. The Glucose Sensor reads glucose levels in the interstitial fluid.
Interstitial fluid is the fluid that surrounds the individual cells in the body.
The nutrients defuse from the capillaries into the interstitial fluid where they are absorbed into the cells. Yes, blood glucose and interstitial fluid glucose levels are essentially equal when blood glucose is not changing rapidly. However, since glucose must enter the central blood supply, pass into peripheral circulation and cross a capillary boundary prior to entering the interstitial fluid, rapidly changing glucose levels create a lag between blood and interstitial fluid measurements. This means that when glucose concentrations are rising in the blood, they are lower in interstitial fluid throughout the lag. MiniMed is currently conducting a multi-center outcomes study that should be complete in the year 2000.