ANALYTE SENSOR APPARATUSES COMPRISING MULTIPLE IMPLANTABLE SENSOR ELEMENTS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING THEM

摘要

Embodiments of the invention provide analyte sensors having optimized elements and/or configurations of elements as well as methods for using such sensors. Typical embodiments of the invention include glucose sensors used in the management of diabetes. One embodiment provides an apparatus for monitoring an analyte in a patient, the apparatus comprising a base element adapted to secure the apparatus to the patient; two piercing members coupled to and extending from the base element; two electrochemical sensors for determining at least a physiological characteristic of the patient at a first and a second electrochemical sensor placement site. The piercing members are further disposed on the base in a configuration so as to dispose the first and the second electrochemical sensors in first and second tissue compartments.