Question : Medtronic Sensors – when using with an insulin pump?
My husband just got his medtronic insulin pump hooked up on wednesday and we just purchased the sensors and transmitter today. it should arrive on tuesday. My question is how long can you leave one sensor in for? I heard that you can do up to 3 weeks with one? is this just a myth? they are very expensive and would like them to last for more then the 3 days they are suppose to be in? any thoughts knowledge would be greatly appreciated. and any tips on the 722 medtronic pump will also help – like cheap places to buy supplies etc. I live in Ont.
medtronic insulin pump

Best answer:

Answer by hopper79
Hi, I also have the 722 and have tried to use the sensors. They are expensive at about 50 bucks a pop, so I completely understand your concern. My plug for the sensor technology is that when it works, it works great. Of course there is a but. BUT I have had some problems with the insertion. I don’t use the Sil-serter tool they provide, I have had better luck doing it manually. After insertion wait maybe an hour or so before starting your sensor. I’m not sure what you were told about the sensor, but it will not tell you exactly what your blood sugars are but rather what the trend is. Diabetes educators have to recommend a 3 day life for the sensor as to avoid infection. So far I have only got about 10 days out of one, I would think 3 weeks would be a bit far fetched. Pay attention to the site if it becomes red or swollen, it is time to change it. Also you need to calibrate your sensor, but don’t do it every time, I was told it uses up the enzyme faster which means the sensor doesn’t last as long. After the first day, I only calibrate 2/day. After the recommended 3 days, your pump will say sensor end. Just start the sensor again as if you have put in a new one. I think the option on the pump is “start new sensor”. Good luck with your new sensors, I find it too expensive to do continually, especially if I screw one up. I mostly use it for trends and only use a sensor every 3-4 weeks. Sorry I can’t point you in the direction of cheaper pharmacies. I use a Safeway pharmacy and I live in Alberta. Good luck:)