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New Insulin Pumps For Diabetes

The hallmark of diabetes is the inability to regulate blood sugar levels. And an insulin pump can be enormously helpful. New technology is taking these devices to the next level. 

Whether a patient has type 1 or type 2 diabetes, the need for an insulin delivery system may become a vital part of their everyday life. Henderson endocrinologist, Reid Litchfield, says that when a patient reaches that point, an insulin pump is the best way to go.

Dr. Litchfield says, "We try to use physiologic insulin delivery that mimics what a healthy pancreas would do. And pumps do that better than almost any other device."

So-called smart pumps, like the Paradigm, can be programmed for specific insulin doses, based on factors such the time of day. More insulin, for example, is often needed in the early morning hours.

Dr. Litchfield says, "The newer pumps have sophisticated technology that will help to calculate and assist the patient in determining just exactly how much insulin they need. Upgraded monitors now display real-time glucose values and trends."

Dr. Litchfield says this can help the patient recognize when and why their glucose level is too high or too low. Finger sticks are still required, though not as often thanks to a sensor under the skin.

Dr. Litchfield adds, "This new technology will measure blood glucose over 280 times a day and give the patient access to those readings anytime they choose."

By managing chronic elevations of blood sugars, patients are more apt to avoid serious diabetes-related health problems.

Dr. Litchfield says, "If you look at the most common cause of kidney failure or blindness or amputation in America, it's due to diabetes."

Email medical producer Rick Andrews at randrews@klastv.com