Medtronic Simplera Sync
Minimed 780G with Smart Guard
Summary
This is a disposable, all-in-one CGM sensor integrated with Medtronic’s pump systems (e.g., MiniMed 780G). Typical wear time is 6 days, plus a 24-hour “grace period.” No routine fingersticks are required when the device is in closed-loop/SmartGuard mode.
FDA approved for ages 7+ on the back of the upper arm
MARD of ~9%
The Medtronic MiniMed™ 780G system is designed with SmartGuard™ technology, which can help with the occasionally missed meal or inexact carb counts. It provides automatic basal adjustments to manage glucose levels to a prespecified target (100 mg/dL [5.5 mmol/L], 110 mg/dL [6.1 mmol/L], or 120 mg/dL [6.7 mmol/L]) and auto correction bolus, every 5 minutes. The advanced hybrid closed-loop system uses current and past glucose trends from the Guardian™ 4 sensor to detect a rapid rise (e.g., a missed meal) in sensor glucose. No fingersticks required when the SmartGuard™ feature is active.
Components
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament beneath the skin to continuously measure glucose every 5 minutes. Simple, one-step applicator makes insertion fast and easy.
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.
Controller
Pump receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Data from the pump and CGM viewable on compatible smartphones.
Sensor
Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm.
Pump
Pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Device Details
Overview
Disposable, all-in-one CGM sensor integrated with Medtronic’s pump systems
This system is integrated and has a customizable settings. Many providers are familiar with Medtronic products.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Coverage depends on region and insurance; supplied via DME or specialty pharmacy.
$$$$
Coverage information is not yet available. Price range; $0-10,769 to start and $0-$300/Month. Price range varies depending on insurance coverage.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.
Yes
CareLink connect is available for care partners with up to five people who can follow a pump user and receive high and low notifications to help keep everyone in the loop.
Data View Options
Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device.
Yes
Data is viewed on compatible smart devices through the MiniMed Mobile App. You can download and view pump or CGM data on CareLink.
Duration and Storage
6 Days
Sensors last 6 days, with a 24-hour grace period, and need about 2 hours to warm up. They work between 41°F – 104°F and should be stored between 36°F – 86°F. They are usually shipped in 1–3 month supplies, which is about 5–15 sensors at a time.
7-day pump 7-day sensor
Sensors last 7 days, transmitter needs weekly charging, store between 36 °F - 86 °F. Pump can be used for up to 7 days with the extended infusion set and works between 40ºF - 104ºF.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
Multiple sound sources
Moderate dexterity needed
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Compact and integrated. Reducing bulk; compatibility with daily activities depends on the adhesive and body movement. Water-resistant up to 8 feet (2.4 m) for 30 minutes.
Temp Target. Manually increase blood sugar target range to 150 mg/dl during activity. Temp target can run 30 minutes to 24 hours in 30-minute increments. Auto corrections are disabled. The pump is not waterproof.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
SmartGuard closed-loop. Pump adjustments use sensor data continuously to reduce highs and lows.
Customizable auto-bolus. Auto-correct bolus corrects highs if carb counts are miscalculated or bolus is occasionally missed. The system aims to maintain a target blood glucose level between 100 mg/dL and 120 mg/dL depending on personalized target glucose settings. Auto-bolus is available every 5 minutes to correct blood sugar between 100 mg/dL and 120 mg/dL (12 corrections per hour). Automatic insulin delivery settings are adjustable.
Comfort
Low profile. No overtape needed and one-hand insertion.
Somewhat comfortable. Medtronic sensors need more tape than other sensors. Largest pump option.
Easy Insulin Dosing
SmartGuard technology. When paired with the MiniMed 780G, it automatically adjusts basal and gives correction boluses based on sensor readings. In manual mode, glucose values can guide dosing decisions, but fingersticks are required for confirmation.
Automatically adjusts settings. Automatically adjusts insulin to reach personalized target between 100 mg/dL and 120 mg/dL. Will automatically revert to manual mode in certain situations. Basal and bolus in 0.025 increments. Extended bolus unavailable when using automated insulin delivery mode.
Easy to Use
All-in-one. Eliminates the need for a separate transmitter, simplifying sensor changes (although more frequent due to the 6-day wear).
Easy software. Software makes many dosing decisions. Can be difficult to keep automatic insulin dosing features working. Requires fewer parts than do-it-yourself systems.
Fewer Fingersticks
Calibration is optional. Perfect if you like having that choice.
Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Small and integrated, but visible on the back of the arm. No separate transmitter reduces the number of visible parts. Alerts and alarms can be adjusted for discretion.
Somewhat discrete. Ability to check blood sugar on phone or watch. Pump has tubing but can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed.