An insulin pump is a compact electronic device designed for continuous insulin delivery, mimicking the function of a healthy pancreas. It provides more precise glycemic control compared to traditional insulin injections.
1. How Does an Insulin Pump Work?
Principle of operation:
✔ Delivers ultra-rapid-acting insulin through a catheter placed under the skin
✔ Uses two delivery modes:
Basal rate (continuous micro-delivery, replacing long-acting insulin)
Bolus (a dose for meals or correction of high blood glucose)
System components:
The pump itself (about the size of a mobile phone)
Insulin reservoir
Infusion set (catheter + cannula)
Controller / monitor
2. Who Is Insulin Pump Therapy Indicated For?
Main indications:
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (especially with unstable control)
Frequent hypoglycemia, particularly at night
The “dawn phenomenon”
Pregnancy with diabetes
Children and adolescents with diabetes
Active individuals seeking more flexibility
In type 2 diabetes: used less often, but may be considered in cases of severe insulin resistance.
3. Advantages Over Insulin Pens
✅ More physiological insulin delivery
No pronounced peaks typical of long-acting insulin
Fine adjustment of basal rates (up to 48 different profiles)
✅ Improved glycemic control
Average HbA1c reduction of 0.5–1%
Reduction of severe hypoglycemia episodes by 70–80%
✅ Improved quality of life
Greater flexibility in diet and daily routine
Discreet use (no need for multiple daily injections)
Integration with continuous glucose monitoring systems
4. Types of Insulin Pumps
Type | Features | Example models
Conventional pumps | Separate device with tubing | Medtronic 780G, Accu-Chek Spirit Combo
Patch pumps | Tubeless, worn directly on the body | Omnipod DASH, Medtrum A6
Hybrid closed-loop systems | Partial automation (sensor + pump) | Tandem t:slim X2, Dana-i
5. Possible Challenges and Limitations
❌ Technical aspects:
Infusion set replacement every 2–3 days
Risk of catheter occlusion
Possibility of mechanical failure
❌ Medical considerations:
Requires patient training
High cost of the system and consumables
Continuous self-monitoring is essential
❌ Psychological factors:
Initial discomfort from wearing the device
Fear of malfunction or incorrect operation
6. Latest Developments: The Artificial Pancreas
Modern “closed-loop” systems (for example, Medtronic 780G, Tandem Control-IQ) automatically:
✔ Adjust basal insulin delivery based on sensor data
✔ Deliver micro-boluses when glucose levels rise
✔ Suspend insulin delivery when hypoglycemia is predicted
Effectiveness: allows patients to remain within the target glycemic range for more than 70% of the time.
Conclusion: Is Switching to a Pump Worth It?
Insulin pump therapy offers:
✔ A more physiological method of insulin delivery
✔ Improved diabetes control
✔ Better quality of life
However, it requires:
Strong patient motivation
Education and self-discipline
Financial resources (in many countries, pumps are provided through insurance or subsidy programs)
The decision to switch should be made together with an endocrinologist after evaluating all indications and contraindications. Modern technology makes living with diabetes easier, but it does not eliminate the need for careful attention to one’s health.