As the name suggests an insulin infusion set comprises an insulin or diabetic pump.  When a diabetic chooses to opt for insulin set one of the important decisions that he/she has to make is the kind of set that they would eventually choose. Diabetics need to keep a strict check on their blood sugar levels. Insulin infusion sets come in handy when people wish to have some sort of flexibility in their strict diabetes regimen.

In most cases the insulin pumps come as part of an infusion set. It is used to transfer the insulin from the pump to the user.  The set comes with a slender plastic tubing of considerable length, a plastic connector that keeps the cannula and the tubing together and a Teflon cannula or one made of stainless steel. The connecter is attached to an adhesive patch that is placed on the skin at the point of insertion. This keeps the cannula in the place.  The connector helps the patient to detach the pump for a short while. However, the infusion set remains intact at all times.

There are various types of insulin infusion sets that are designed in a way that they suit diverse requirements. Some infusions set are designed in manner that the cannula can be passed straight or at a certain angle through the subcutaneous tissue.  While some cannulas can be inserted using an insertion device there are others that can be inserted manually.  The tubing lengths vary with each manufacturer.

There are two different options for a diabetic when it comes to the insertion of the cannula.  If the patient decides to opt for manual insertion, then he/she needs to push the needle into the subcutaneous tissue. The process is quite akin to that of giving an injection.  The manual method is suitable for those who wish to check the speed of the process.

On the other hand, there are many who prefer opting for the insertion device as part of the insulin infusion set.  These are particularly suitable for those suffering from arthritis, people who have a physical condition that has an effect on the motor skills such as Parkinson or people who are simply afraid of the needle.  An insertion device also makes it much easier to reach the infusion points which are otherwise difficult to reach. However, this mode of injecting insulin is comparatively more expensive than the manual method.  Also it becomes difficult for the individual to control the angle of insertion.

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