The various types of insulin pumps were welcome devices in the delivery of insulin into the body. The needle needs to be changed only once in two or three days, not a number of times a day! Before the coming of the pump, there is a need for self-injection, measuring the amount of insulin each time, a new needle every time and so many to throw away every day. With the pump, there is a gradual, constant flow of insulin into the body through a plastic needle left at a site for 2 to 3 days. After that, all that is required is the monitoring of blood sugar levels.
Types of Diabetic Insulin Pumps
Insulin pumps are computerized gadgets the size of beepers, which can be programmed to release a particular amount of insulin continuously into the body of a diabetic. Their use does away with the need for several insulin injections in diabetes management. Available are three types of insulin pumps: tubeless insulin pump, tube or infusion sets, and implantable insulin pump. However, the use of the pump does not do away with the necessity to monitor regularly blood sugar levels each day.
- Tubeless Insulin Pump : Tubeless insulin pumps are attached onto the surface of the skin after a plastic needle called the cannula has been put under the skin. The cartridge of this pump has sufficient insulin for about three days. Remote control of the pump is made possible with a wireless device placed in a pocket or a pouch strapped to a belt. The programming for the pump can even be done with a computer. Compared with the tube set pump, this tubeless pump is smaller and lighter.
- Tube/Infusion Insulin Pump : Among doctors and diabetics, the most commonly used pump is the tube or infusion set insulin pumps. This type of insulin pump is small, about the size of a cell-phone, with one end of the attached tubing placed beneath the skin around the stomach. The pump can be carried around in a pocket or clipped to a belt. The tubing can be easily kept hidden under the diabetic’s clothing.
- Implantable Insulin Pumps : The implantable insulin pumps actually are not available to the ordinary diabetics. They are used in researches. These pumps are planted under the skin, between the muscle and organs (peritoneal), at the abdomen. The insulin cartridge is also place beneath the skin and contains enough insulin for more than a month. And the cartridge can be refilled with the insulin injected inside with a syringe. The ADA (American Diabetes Association) states that this pump has yet to be FDA-approved for public use in America. For research participant hopefuls, a doctor is the best person to provide information on the matter.
Insulin Pump VS Injections – Video Guide
The Degree of Water-Resistance
Although all types of insulin pumps are resistant to water, the degree of resistance is not very high and, therefore, should not have flowing water going directly over it. When bathing, it is better to put them out of the water. It is possible to disconnect the pump from the connection port for exercising or swimming. However, it must be remembered that no insulin is released into the body when the pump has been disconnected.