July 23, 2010 01:47pm EST 

With the advent of the insulin pump, many individuals have voraciously integrated sensor-augmented insulin pump technology - in lieu of insulin injections - into their individual, daily diabetic management; however, there still exists a divide between diabetics, as well as endocrinologists with regard to the sensor-augmented insulin pump. Primarily, a sensor-augmented insulin pump provides an alternative to an extensive daily insulin shot regimen in order to maintain the healthful stasis of glucose in the blood stream of an individual suffering from diabetes. Recent tests have shown sensor-augmented insulin pump technology to largely reduce hypoglycemia due to the fact that the pump's release of insulin can be drawn out for extended periods of time. Insulin release is commensurate on an individual diet; there exists an internal mechanism that responds to the digital inputting of the number of carbohydrates ingested, at which time the sensor-augmented insulin pump responds with the release of insulin - insulin pumps are traditionally outfitted with an internal alarm system, which furthers the respective monitoring-awareness of the user. These same studies have illustrated that a majority of diabetics have responded favorably, both in blood sugar levels, as well as in the decrease of a collective level of hypoglycemia. The study's findings indicated that an excess of half of the test subjects reported lower glycated hemoglobin levels.

Conversely, the prospect for mechanical failure of a sensor-augmented insulin pump remains a concern of many. Insulin pumps must be removed prior to engaging in rigorous activities, as well as daily activities such as bathing. In the event that a user experiences an insulin pump malfunction, the immediate access to ketones is imperative; the failure to do so could lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. Yet, despite the risks, a majority of diabetic patients have found that the sensor-augmented insulin pump's lack of procedural intrusiveness coupled with heightened user-friendliness creates for a preferable alternative in the management of diabetes.