Disadvantages of Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion

Disadvantages of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion include:

• The fact that direct costs are greater
• CSII therapy is labour-intensive for both providers and patients, or their caregivers
• Since only short-acting insulin is used, accidental disconnection or malfunction of the infusion will cause insulin deficiency within minutes, together with the risk of ketoacidosis after several hours if suitable measures are not taken. This risk requires frequent blood glucose tests and attention to elevated test values
• A risk of infection at the insertion site. However, this can be prevented by following aseptic insertion techniques, varying the insertion site every three days and applying an antibiotic ointment if necessary
• Users have an external device attached to their body at all times