ABSTRACT
With the motivation to provide a small and discreet patch pump that complies with several customer needs, the recently CE-marked Accu-Chek® Solo micropump system was designed. The system consists of a tubeless insulin pump wirelessly controlled by the so-called diabetes manager. Via diabetes manager, basal rates and boluses are programmed; an integrated blood glucose meter and bolus calculator supports users in bolusing and offers several diary functions. The micropump features a quick bolus button for bolus initiation directly on the pump and is complemented by a disposable reservoir holding up to 200 U of rapid-acting insulin. The assembled pump is attached to the body via a pump holder containing soft cannula. The modular principle enables independent replacement of the single components if necessary.
Subject(s)
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/drug therapy , Insulin Infusion Systems , Insulin/administration & dosage , Wireless Technology/instrumentation , Blood Glucose/analysis , Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring/instrumentation , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/blood , Equipment Design , Glycated Hemoglobin/analysis , Humans , Implementation Science , Microtechnology/instrumentation , Proof of Concept Study , Transdermal PatchABSTRACT
Biomedical outcomes for people with diabetes remain suboptimal for many. Psychosocial care in diabetes does not fare any better. "Artificial pancreas" (also known as "closed-loop" and "automated insulin delivery") systems present a promising therapeutic option for people with diabetes (PWD)-simultaneously improving glycemic outcomes, reducing the burden of self-management, and improving health-related quality of life. In recent years there has emerged a growing movement of PWD innovators rallying behind the mantra #WeAreNotWaiting, developing "do-it-yourself artificial pancreas systems (DIY APS)." Self-reported results by DIY APS users show improved metabolic outcomes such as impressive stability of glucose profiles, significant reduction of A1c, and more time within their glycemic target range. However, the benefits remain unclear for the broader population of PWD beyond these highly engaged, highly tech-savvy users willing and able to engage in the demands of building and maintaining their DIY APS. We discuss the challenges faced by key stakeholder groups in terms of potential collaboration and open debate of these challenges.
