A Study of Glycemic Control in Left Ventricular Assist

Conditions studied

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hyperglycemia, Hypoglycemia

About this study

The study is being conducted to understand if the hemoglobin A1c, a measurement of control of blood sugars over a 3-month time, is valid in patients with Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) in place. To understand whether it is an adequate measurement, the investigators will compare the A1c to results from a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) measurement of blood sugars. By monitoring blood sugars continuously, the investigators will also assess whether they can get better control of blood sugars with a CGM, including avoiding low blood sugars.

Interventions

• Device: Freestyle Libre 3 Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) — Subjects will be provided a Freestyle Libre 3 CGM for monitoring of blood glucose levels throughout participation in the study (approximately 3 months). CGM data will be uploaded to the LibreLink app on a weekly basis for review of glucose control and consultation with a diabetes-trained provider for any values outside of normal ranges. Adjustments to diet and medication therapy (antihyperglycemic therapy) will be made during consultations to improve episodes of hypoglycemia or severe hyperglycemia that were observed.

Primary outcomes

• Average glucose values based on continuous glucose monitoring (3 months)
• Estimated average glucose (eAG) values based on hemoglobin-A1c lab values (3 months)
• Estimated average glucose (eAG) values based on fructosamine lab values (3 months)