How Many Grays to Get to the Malfunction of Insulin Pumps? Determining the Effects of Radiation on Insulin Pump Function.

BACKGROUND

The primary objective was to determine if exposure to radiation has an effect on insulin pump function.

METHOD: Four donated insulin pumps were filled with saline and set to identical program modes. They were attached together with a dosimeter and exposed to repeat CT scans.

RESULTS

Insulin Pump 1 experienced a "Prime" alarm and a darkened screen during CT scan radiation exposure; this pump was removed from further radiation exposure after 6 CT scans. Insulin Pumps 2, 3, and 4 all continued to receive 34 more consecutive CT scan exposures with no significant alarms, failures, or malfunctions. Insulin Pump 4 experienced "Low Battery" and "Stuck Button" alarms, both of which were easily fixed. Insulin Pumps 2, 3, and 4 received a total of at least 8576 mrem from 34 CT scans worth of radiation without any significant alarms, malfunctions, or failures. Insulin Pump 1 was monitored after being removed from the study and continued to function normally with the darkened screen.

CONCLUSIONS

It cannot be determined whether Insulin Pump 1 had minor malfunctions due to repetitive use as a demonstration model or due to the radiation exposure. Insulin Pumps 2, 3, and 4 were monitored for 2 additional months following radiation exposure and continued to function normally. Further research studies with a larger number of insulin pumps are warranted to determine the true effect of radiation exposure on insulin pump function.