Diagnosis of the cause of malfunction of indwelling catheters for insulin injections by the use of digital fluoroscopy

Pediatr Radiol. 2000 Oct;30(10):674-6. doi: 10.1007/s002470000248.

Abstract

Background: Subcutaneous indwelling catheters are used for reducing pain when injecting insulin and other drugs.

Objective: To use digital fluoroscopy for the diagnosis of catheter malfunction.

Material and methods: Seven children (aged 5-11 years) with diabetes mellitus were studied. They used indwelling catheters (Insuflon) for insulin injections. Contrast medium was injected into the problem catheter.

Results: The subcutaneous position of the catheter was correct in all cases, but we found two cases of delayed absorption caused by lipohypertrophy and one case of leakage.

Conclusions: Digital fluoroscopy is a useful method for determining potential problems with indwelling catheters.

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Catheters, Indwelling / adverse effects*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Diabetes Mellitus / drug therapy
  • Fluoroscopy*
  • Humans
  • Insulin / administration & dosage*
  • Radiographic Image Enhancement

Substances

  • Insulin