"How Many Grays to Get to the Malfunction of Insulin Pumps? Determining" by Angela Magdaleno DO, Gretchen A. Perilli MD et al.
 

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

Publication/Presentation Date

3-2019

Abstract

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.

Volume

13

Issue

2

First Page

221

Last Page

225

ISSN

1932-2968

Disciplines

Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism | Internal Medicine

PubMedID

30175594

Department(s)

Department of Medicine, Department of Medicine Faculty, Department of Medicine Fellows and Residents

Document Type

Article

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