Analysis: high-tech diabetes technology and the myth of clinical "plug and play".

In this issue of Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, Davey and coauthors present encouraging data that even short-term use of a real-time continuous glucose monitor can lead to marked reduction in hypoglycemia exposure. In this analysis, two particular issues will be discussed: the distinction between short- and long-term experiences with sensors and the use of standardized diabetes treatment algorithms for use with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices. An understanding of both of these aspects of CGM devices is necessary for placing clinical diabetes technology products into the context of how they will be used in "real life."