Review of Modern Insulin Pumps and the Perioperative Management of the Type 1 Diabetic Patient for Ambulatory Dental Surgery

The use of continuous insulin pump systems for effective management of glycemic control in the patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is steadily increasing. Although the types of devices and their respective manufacturers vary, insulin pumps all utilize similar underlying concepts based on the delivery of exogenous insulin to patients with T1DM in manners that more closely approximate the normal biologic function and performance of the pancreas. As insulin pumps becomes more commonplace and their use more widespread, the sedation or anesthesia provider must ensure familiarity with the basic knowledge of pump function and the various perioperative management considerations. This review provides a concise overview of the pathophysiology of T1DM, introduces foundational aspects of common insulin pump systems, and discusses several general recommendations regarding the perioperative management of insulin pumps during dental surgeries.