Types of Diabetic Insulin Pumps

Diabetes is a serious condition that can be controlled with insulin and a change of lifestyle that can be difficult for some. For patients who have trouble avoiding erratic eating, working and activity schedules, insulin pumps can help.

Facts

• Insulin pumps are small, pager-sized devices operated by battery. The main purpose of an insulin pump is to provide the diabetic with a constant supply of insulin in small doses. These pumps can be carried conveniently on your belt or in your pocket. The downside of insulin pumps: they don't measure the diabetic's blood sugar levels and don't automatically provide the dosage of insulin that the diabetic requires.

Pumps with Tubes and Infusion Sets

• There are different types of insulin pumps. One uses tubes and infusion sets. This kind of device is composed of a container, a syringe, and a microcomputer. The microcomputer allows you to adjust the dosage of insulin. A sterile tube is inserted under the skin below the abdomen and is taped into place. The insulin is then pumped through this tube. This tube should be changed every other day. Most people can set this up easily.

Tubeless

• Another type of insulin pump is tubeless. The insulin is directly pumped into the skin with the microcomputer on top of the diabetic's skin. This type of pump is more mobile but could be a bit complicated to set up.

Implantable

• Although there is a type of pump that can be implanted, it is not available to the public, being mainly used for experiments and research. This insulin pump is surgically implanted under the skin with the insulin being pumped into the space between the organs and the abdominal muscles. The container of insulin is also implanted under the skin but can be refilled with syringe every 45 days.

Choosing the Right Pump

• Your doctor will help you choose the right insulin pump and make you aware of its advantages and disadvantages.