Accuracy of a Low-Cost Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion Pump Prototype: In Vitro Study Using Combined Methodologies

Considering that infusion devices are safety-critical systems, the main goal of this paper is to evaluate the infusion accuracy and precision of a low-cost insulin infusion pump prototype, using two different methodologies. The first one used a microgravimetric method adapted from IEC60601-2-24, and the second estimated the displacement of the syringe plunger in response to programmed infusions. The low-cost prototype resulted in a compact and functional device with good accuracy. The prototype infused the programmed fluid doses with an average error of 2.2%. The percentage of infusions within +/- 5% accuracy was 42.50 and of 84.17% for the +/- 15% limit. The developed miniaturized mechanical system presented functionality, precision, and accuracy when coupled to the electronic system, responded well to repeatability tests. Additionally, the results from in vitro tests demonstrated that the performance of the device is satisfactory and comparable to commercial continuous insulin infusion pumps. This study presents a low-cost prototype as a candidate to be used by type 1 diabetic patients in Brazil and developing countries, especially in the context of public health.

Automated summary

This study evaluates the accuracy and precision of a low-cost insulin infusion pump prototype using two different methods, showing that the prototype can accurately infuse programmed fluid doses with good performance in repeatability tests. It is presented as a candidate for type 1 diabetic patients in Brazil and developing countries for public health purposes.