[smsquires]

The warranty on my MiniMed 515 runs out in a few weeks. I really wanted to upgrade to the cgm system. I have had 4 trials with the sensor at the Diabetes Education Center and could not keep the radio wave detectable for more than 65 minutes (usually less).

We are all flummoxed and the MinniMed Customer Service Line did n ot suggest anything we hadn't already tried.

I am beginning to think this is a great idea but not ready for prime time, ie not technically relaible. Have any of you tried it. What is your experience?

[orange81bird]

I am currently using the MM 722 with CGMS. There have been a few episodes of lost sensor alarms when trying to get a new sensor set up but they get cleared up over time. Other than just getting a new sensor started I have had great luck with it. My only problem is a small skin irration.

[smsquires]

Heather -

Once I got the msg "Lost Sensor" no one could get it started again. We tried 4 different sensors and 2 different meters and then finally a sensor with just a receiver. None of them worked more than 65 minutes (that was the receiver).

What did you do to pick up the signal again?

[orange81bird]

I really didn't do anything special. If I got 2 "Lost Sensor" messages I would try the "Reconnect Old Sensor". I think one time I even just disconnected the transmitter, let it sit, reconnected and did "Start New Sensor". If anything call the number on the back of the pump. I really didn't want to call as I was at work and thought I would try and figure it out for myself first.

[deansreef]

i have injected 2 sensors and have never got them to work. i called minimed 24hr help line and still no luck. i got the error "cal error" "lost sensor" and finally "bad sensor"...it is frustrating to say the least.

Dean

[Brettt333]

I started the Dexcom CGM In June. I have mostly been pleased with the longevity of the sensor, ease of inserstion, and, usually, the accuracey. The sensor has taken over my abdomin. Much more consistant results.

[GretchO]

Originally Posted by deansreef

i have injected 2 sensors and have never got them to work. i called minimed 24hr help line and still no luck. i got the error "cal error" "lost sensor" and finally "bad sensor"...it is frustrating to say the least.

Cal Errors generally occur when you calibrate and your blood sugars are fluctuating (after injecting, eating, etc.). If you get two Cal Errors in a row you'll get the Bad Sensor error and the sensor's done. You really need to calibrate when your blood sugars are steady - I do mine in the morning when I get up and test, and before I go to bed. Usually never more than twice a day. Also, insertion angle is pretty important.

Does your diabetes educator know anything or have much experience with sensors? Two of the nurses in my diabetes clinic are Type 1s and both have pumps and sensors, so I have some good resources whenever I have questions. Plus I've gotten some good advice from folks on this forum.

I've been using the sensor for about 9 months and have only gotten two Bad Sensors, and it was because I calibrated when my blood sugar was fluctuating.

I can get 9-12 days out of a sensor (with a transmitter recharge after about 6 or 7 days). Generally change it when my skin starts to get irritated.

Also, I usually insert a new sensor about 8-12 hours before I'm ready to change - if I plan to start a new sensor in the morning, I'll insert the new one before I go to bed. Since I've been doing this I've had virtually no problems with the new sensor start up and it's pretty accurate from the get go.

When I did my sensor training, I was advised to start new sensors when you'd be going into a 3-4 hour period of not eating/injecting. So I usually do mine either first thing in the morning and delay breakfast a bit, or eat lunch early (11:00ish) and then start the new sensor around 1:00pm.

Sorry, this post is kind of a stream of consciousness blather. I need an editor.