An insulin pump is a medical device used primarily to treat type 1 diabetes mellitus. The insulin pump is used as an alternative to multiple daily insulin injections by a syringe or insulin pen. An insulin pump imitates the way a pancreas works by allowing the patient to set a basal rate, or background insulin, that is continuously delivered throughout the day. When the patient eats they can then give a bolus dosage of insulin, or a burst of insulin, on demand, to compensate for the food.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a doctor before taking any action suggested on this page.
Featured Video
In this video Dr. Steven Edelman discusses what an insulin pump is and how it works. This is from the series "Taking Control of Your Diabetes" (3/2008)
References
Fast Facts
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Structure
The pump includes the device itself (including controls, processing module, and batteries), a disposable reservoir for insulin (inside the pump), a disposable infusion set, including a cannula for subcutaneous insertion (under the skin) and a tubing system to interface the insulin reservoir to the cannula.
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Function
Insulin pumps deliver rapid- or short-acting insulin 24 hours a day through a catheter placed under the skin. Insulin doses are separated into: Basal rates, Bolus doses to cover meals, and correction or supplemental doses.
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Disorder
Insulin pumps are used to treat diabetes mellitus.
