The FDA cleared the removal of the imaging contradiction for the continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for procedures like X-rays, CT scans and MRIs. Abbott said it makes its systems the first and only patient-applied CGM sensors approved for these screenings.
Users no longer have to remove and discard the sensor for these imaging procedures before the device’s wear time ends. This could provide increased confidence in their device and the potential to save money.
Dr. Carol Wysham serves as a clinical professor of medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine and section head of the department of diabetes and endocrinology at Rockwood Clinic in Spokane. Wysham said patients previously had to remove sensors for the procedures, resulting in several hours without critical data.
“The removal of the imaging contraindication from Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 2 and 3 systems is a big win for patients, allowing them to keep their sensors on and avoid lost data,” Wysham said.
Imaging procedures often come as part of diabetes care, Abbott said, especially as diabetes can cause a number of medical complications. The company rigorously tested its Libre 2 and 3 sensors to ensure they remain effective after radiologic procedures. This FDA clearance comes with no changes made to the sensor, too.
“Continuous glucose monitoring is essential for diabetes management,” said Dr. Anila Bindal, associate medical director for Abbott’s diabetes care business. “We’ve seen first-hand how consistent use of Libre technology benefits people living with diabetes. This contraindication removal aligns with Abbott’s commitment to provide easy, convenient, and affordable technology for diabetes management.”
