MiniMed insulin pumps from Medtronic are in the news due to a major recall. Medtronic received 26,421 complaints about problems with MiniMed insulin pumps leading to 2,175 injuries and one death.
The FDA recall is a Class I recall, the most serious category.
The problem lies with the retainer ring, which can easily be broken or fall out when the device is bumped. The ring works by locking the insulin cartridge in place in the reservoir compartment.
Once damage occurs, the pump could deliver an incorrect insulin dose, either too much or too little insulin.
Recalled Medtronic devices
The recall covers around 322,005 devices in the U.S., specifically:
- Model 630G (Model # MMT-1715) distributed in September 2016 to October 2019
- Model 670G (Model # MMT-1780) distributed in June 2017 to August 2019
If your retainer ring is lost or damaged, do not use the pump and instead use manual injections. If you drop or bump your pump, be sure to check your retainer ring to see if there is damage. If your pump’s retainer ring is intact, you can continue to use it. Check Medtronic’s safety letter for specific instructions and images.
MiniMed 508 and MiniMed Paradigm insulin pumps were recalled in June due to a hacking risk.
What is an insulin pump?
An insulin pump is a device that delivers insulin in lieu of insulin injections. It’s an electronic device, much like a portable IV that automatically administers insulin throughout the day. Users can program it to give bolus and basal insulin. Insulin pumps are meant to mimic how a body would normally release insulin to convert glucose into energy.
The pump is about the size of a smartphone, and delivers insulin via a tube and cannula inserted into your skin. Before using the pump, you should get training from your doctor on how to use it. Your diabetes care team can help you choose a pump that will deliver the right doses based on your sensitivity to insulin.
