Infusion Set Comparison

Although patch pumps applied directly to the skin are more available, most pumps infuse insulin from a pump reservoir through an infusion set. No single set works well for everyone, so choosing an infusion set can be difficult. The type of set shipped with a new pump is usually one manufactured by the pump company and this set may or may not be the best choice. Fortunately, there are many alternatives to choose from.

Metal or Teflon: Today’s straight-in metal sets offer fine gauge needles that are comfortable, reliable, and the easiest to insert. Teflon sets use a metal needle inserter that is removed after insertion, leaving only the Teflon tubing under the skin. Generally, the longer the Teflon, the more reliable the set. Slanted Teflon sets tend to be more reliable for many pumpers than straight-in Teflon Sets, but are generally best inserted by hand rather than with an automatic inserter.

Length: Infusion sets come in different line lengths and different needle lengths. Typical needle lengths for straight-in sets are 6 mm for infants, 8 mm for a child, 10 mm for an adult, and 12 mm for larger adults while 13 mm and 17 mm serve similar functions for the slanted Teflon sets. Most infusion lines are 24, 31, or 42 inches in length. Shorter lines work better for small children and those who prefer a short line, while longer lines work well for those who are taller.

Needle Gauge: Gauge is a standard way to measure the diameter of a needle. A lower gauge means a larger needle. For example, 25 gauge is larger than 27 gauge.

Connection Compatibility: Most infusion sets have a standard threaded Luer lock connection that can be used on most pumps. The Medtronic Paradigm and the Sooil Diabecare pumps use their own proprietary connections, so these pumps work with only a limited number of infusion sets.

Disconnect: At-site disconnect is when you disconnect the tubing at your infusion site. Just the adhesive, connection hub, and cannula remain behind. Away-from-body disconnect is a good option for people who prefer to leave their line taped down when they detach. Rather than disconnecting right at the infusion site, you can disconnect away from your body where you can see and feel the tubing better. About a 4-inch tail is left behind with the cannula, connection hub and adhesive.

Inserter: A device that helps insert the cannula and may simplify the insertion process. Inserters work better with straight-in Teflon sets than with slanted ones.

The Diabetes Mall does not currently sell any infusion sets.

---

Animas (sold by Medtronic)

Accu-Chek Infusion Sets

Medtronic Diabetes

Smiths Medical

Sooil Development

Tandem Infusion Sets

Read Pumping Insulin for easy steps on how to succeed with your insulin pump.