- βKeeping your CGM sensor on during X-rays or CT scans β as long as it's outside the direct imaging area β did not reduce its accuracy.
| Journal | Pediatric diabetes |
| Year | 2024 |
| Authors | Tellez, Hornung, Smith |
| PMID | 40302953 |
| DOI | 10.1155/2024/2210509 |
What This Study Found
A 2024 study published in Pediatric Diabetes found that continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) stayed clinically accurate even after being exposed to scatter radiation from X-rays and CT scans. Researchers followed 14 pediatric patients through multiple imaging procedures over three months and found no meaningful drop in CGM accuracy. At least 98% of all glucose readings fell within the safe and clinically useful range on a standard accuracy test called the Clarke Error Grid.
Why This Matters for You
If you or your child wears a CGM, you may have been told to remove it before an X-ray or CT scan. That instruction comes from manufacturer guidelines designed to protect the device from direct radiation exposure. But removing a CGM sensor isn't simple β it means losing your glucose data, paying for a new sensor, and dealing with the stress of reapplying it, especially during an already difficult medical visit.
This study suggests that if the CGM is outside the direct field of view (meaning the sensor isn't in the exact area being scanned), leaving it in place may be safe and still give accurate readings. That's potentially good news for anyone who needs regular medical imaging.
Who Was in the Study?
The study followed 14 young patients (average age 12 years) who had undergone a total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) β a complex surgery that removes the pancreas and requires insulin management afterward. These patients needed frequent imaging scans as part of their recovery care. Researchers measured the scattered radiation dose each patient's CGM received and then compared CGM glucose readings to standard fingerstick glucometer readings.
What the Results Showed
- The amount of scatter radiation received by the CGM had no significant effect on reading accuracy
- Time since surgery also had no effect on CGM accuracy
- 98% or more of readings were clinically accurate across all patients and imaging sessions
- No sensors needed to be replaced due to radiation-related damage
Important Limits to Know
This was a small study with 14 patients, all children, and all using a specific CGM system. The findings apply to sensors placed outside the imaging field β not directly in the path of the X-ray beam. Always talk to your care team before deciding whether to remove your CGM before any imaging procedure. These findings are promising, but your doctor should guide your individual decision.
The Bottom Line
Removing a CGM before every scan adds cost, stress, and gaps in glucose data. This research suggests that keeping the sensor on β when it's out of the direct scan area β may be a safe and practical option. It's a conversation worth having with your diabetes care team before your next imaging appointment.
π Key Takeaway
Keeping your CGM sensor on during X-rays or CT scans β as long as it's outside the direct imaging area β did not reduce its accuracy in this study, suggesting patients may not always need to remove their device before routine diagnostic imaging.
At MDS Diabetes, we carry a wide range of CGM supplies and accessories to help you manage your glucose monitoring with as few interruptions as possible. Whether you're looking for sensors, transmitters, or helpful accessories, our team is here to support your care.
Citation
Tellez, Hornung, Smith (2024). Real-World Accuracy of a Continuous Glucose Monitor after Radiologic Exposure. Pediatric Diabetes. PMID: 40302953. DOI: 10.1155/2024/2210509