The piston pushes the syringe in a variable rates, which allow for accurate delivery of different doses of insulin. The insulin is infused subcutaneously via a tubing from the pump to a small needle, which is placed under the skin. The needle can stay in that location for as long as two to three days without being changed. This eliminates the need for multiple injections of insulin on a daily basis and allows for intense control of blood sugars. Advantages of Insulin Pumps Studies show that, with proper use and medical treatment, patients on insulin pumps may achieve meticulous regulation of their blood sugars.
Pumps are also a more flexible way to control diabetes.
Patients on pumps have much more freedom in their ability to choose their eating schedule and variations of activity. Disadvantages of Pumps Despite these definite advantages, pumps are not for everyone. They are the most expensive form of insulin therapy. Blood sugars can vary much faster in patients on pumps than patients on other forms of therapy. Therefore, patients on pumps should measure their blood sugars more often than patients on traditional insulin treatment.