Hybrid Closed-Loop Insulin Pump Technology Can Be Safely Used in the Inpatient Setting

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Diseases
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Hybrid closed-loop (HCL) systems, also known as automated insulin delivery, are increasingly used for diabetes management.
• Assessing inpatient safety is crucial as more patients use these systems outside the hospital.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of continued hybrid closed-loop system use in hospitalized patients.
• To compare glycemic control and adverse events in HCL users versus other insulin delivery methods during hospitalization.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 71 patients using HCL technology upon hospital admission (June 2020 - June 2021).
• Patients categorized into: HCL users, manual insulin pump users, and pump removed groups.
• Comparison of demographic data, HbA1c, glucose levels, hyperglycemia, and hypoglycemia frequency.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in mean glucose levels, hyperglycemia, or hypoglycemia between HCL users, manual pump users, and pump removed groups.
• No adverse events reported, including diabetic ketoacidosis, pump site complications, infection, or equipment malfunction.
• Demographics and clinical characteristics were similar across all patient groups.

Conclusions:

• Continued use of hybrid closed-loop technology during hospitalization is safe.
• Glycemic control in HCL users was comparable to manual insulin pump and basal-bolus insulin therapy.
• This preliminary review supports HCL use in inpatient settings.