Infusion Set Cannula Lengths

Diabetes Technology Insulin Pumps
1

I am currently using a Medtronic Paradigm 723 pump with the Quickset 32" 9mm infusion sets. I like the32" over the 23" because it provides a little more freedom of movement and allows me to place the sites on my thighs while allowing me enough length to keep the pump clipped into a t-shirt breast pocket during sleep.

Has anyone had any experience testing the 9mm cannula lengths against the 6mm? I was told that 9mm was preferable for all but the most lean body types. I am 6' and 220 lbs. I have a lot of muscle and wouldn't consider myself lean by any stretch. However, I seem to get a lot of infusion sites that bleed and/or bruise. I just removed one last night to do a change and when I pulled the cannula from the old set out, it was like releasing the bunghole on a wine cask -- blood just poured out of the site. I sometimes get bleeding on my thighs too.

I am wondering if the 9mm cannula is setting too deep into my body. Anyone have any thoughts or advice?

2

It never hurts to try the 6mm and see if you get different results.... You should call the 24 hour help line at Medtronic and ask for a sample of the 6mm sets. (Number on back of your pump). They may also be able to send out other samples too; they will be the best to trouble shoot with you to find the best set for your body.

3

I could feel the 9 mm sitting on my muscle so i switched out to the 6mm. Not so much bleeding, just very painful during insertion and anytime i touched the site. The 6 mm resolved those issues.

4

I would suggest trying a infusion set that goes in at an angle.
http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/products/Products/InfusionSets/InfusionSetComparisonChart