Total implantation of a remotely controlled insulin minipump in a human insulin-dependent diabetic

This study reports our first total implantation of an insulin minipump in a severely unstable 23-year-old female insulin-dependent diabetic. The implantable unit includes a stepping motor, a percutaneously refillable insulin reservoir (10 ml, U 100 special insulin), a battery with a life span of one year, and a method for prevention of overdosage. Variable continuous basal and superimposed 1-hour high rates are programmed and checked via an external remote controller. The pump was inserted in the lateral muscles of the abdomen and the insulin delivery catheter terminated in the peritoneal cavity. Excellent glycemic control was reached rapidly and has continued seven months after implantation (mean blood glucose is 123 +/- 62 mg/dl; glycosylated hemoglobin is 7.0 +/- 1.2%), with the unit providing the only source of insulin. The only negative aspects were a chronic lymphorrhea in the first two months, and a need for frequent and laborious insulin refills (every 20 days). Only slight local discomfort was experienced. Thus, although further miniaturization and autonomy are expected, these preliminary results show that with careful instruction and followup, implanted pumps could represent a reliable and safe alternative to conventional insulin therapy for selected diabetics.