Hybrid Closed-Loop Systems Associated with Improved Blood Sugar Regulation

Hybrid closed-loop systems have a higher chance of seeing an improvement in their HbA1c levels than those who use open-loop therapy. The study, which was carried out by specialists from the German Center for diabetic Research, outlines the advantages and disadvantages of this cutting-edge diabetic technology.

Important Results

It has been discovered that hybrid closed-loop systems, commonly referred to as automatic insulin delivery (AID) systems, considerably lower the incidence of hypoglycaemic coma in people with type 1 diabetes. This device automatically modifies insulin delivery based on blood sugar levels in real time by combining an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor (CGM).

However, as compared to patients using open-loop therapy, the study also found that those utilizing hybrid closed-loop devices had a higher risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This implies that in order to reduce potential dangers, ongoing monitoring and instruction on appropriate gadget usage are required.

Knowing Insulin Therapy and Type 1 Diabetes

The chronic illness known as type 1 diabetes is characterized by the body’s inability to manufacture insulin, the hormone that controls blood sugar levels. In the absence of insulin, blood glucose levels become dangerously elevated, requiring daily insulin therapy to keep glycemic control. Insulin management used to involve several daily injections or manual insulin pump adjustments, which frequently involved repeated finger-prick tests.

By eliminating the need for ongoing monitoring and human insulin changes, hybrid closed-loop devices mark a substantial leap in the management of diabetes.

Study Information and Participants

Almost 14,000 young people with type 1 diabetes from 250 diabetic centers in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Luxembourg participated in the study. The age range of the participants was two to twenty years old:

• 7,088 people used closed-loop hybrid systems.
• Open-loop systems were used by 6,834 individuals.

Comparing those on hybrid closed-loop therapy to those on open-loop therapy, the results showed that the former group had lower HbA1c levels and a lower risk of hypoglycaemic coma. Nevertheless, a greater incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis was observed in hybrid closed-loop users, highlighting the significance of cautious system control.

Hybrid Closed-Loop Systems’ Future

Although hybrid closed-loop technology improves blood sugar regulation and lowers the risk of severe hypoglycemia, its link to a higher risk of DKA emphasizes the necessity of ongoing user education and assistance. To optimize benefits and minimize hazards, healthcare practitioners should make sure that users are knowledgeable about device maintenance and troubleshooting.

As diabetes technology advances, more study is required to improve these systems and make them even safer and more efficient for people with type 1 diabetes around the world.