A retrospective observational study on the effects of switching from conventional insulin pump to sensor-augmented pump (SAP) therapy

The purpose of this retrospective observational study is to analyze the clinical course of sensor augmented pump (SAP) therapy after switching from insulin pump therapy and to evaluate the predictors of the therapeutic effects of SAP therapy. Twenty-two type 1 diabetes patients who received SAP therapy for more than one year after switching from insulin pump therapy were enrolled. HbAlc levels were unchanged at 6 months and significantly improved at 12 months. The HbAlc levels at 6 months were decreased in 14 patients and unchanged or increased in the other 8 patients. In the latter group with unchanged or increased HbAlc levels at 6 months, the mean HbAlc level at the induction of SAP therapy was significantly lower and the percentage of patients with SMBG <70 mg/dL before SAP therapy was higher in comparison to the former group. A multiple regression analysis showed a significant negative correlation between the change in % TBD (6M) and the change in the HbAlc level (6M). Conclusively, in patients with frequent hypoglycemia, we should evaluate the therapeutic effects based on various parameters, such as average sensor glucose levels and AUC <70 mg/dL, since it is possible that the HbAlc level may transiently increase after the induction of SAP therapy in such cases.