Choosing the Best Infusion Set for Insulin Pump Therapy

For insulin pump users, selecting the right infusion set is just as important as programming the pump itself. The infusion set—and how well it stays in place—can determine how reliably insulin is delivered, affecting blood sugar control and your daily comfort.

A poorly chosen infusion set may cause skin irritation, crimping, detachment, or site failure. These issues can lead to unexpected high blood glucose, disrupted insulin delivery, or even dangerous ketone build-up if not quickly corrected.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) emphasizes the importance of proper infusion set function in reducing variability in insulin delivery and preventing complications related to pump therapy.

🩺 Key Factors to Consider When Selecting an Infusion Set

Choosing the best infusion set for your needs depends on several personal and medical factors. Here’s what to consider:

  • Body Composition: Lean individuals may benefit from angled sets, while those with more subcutaneous fat can use straight-in sets more effectively.

  • Preferred Infusion Sites: Common sites include the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and arms. Rotating sites prevents lipohypertrophy and skin damage.

  • Physical Activity: Athletes or active users may need extra-secure sets or adhesive reinforcements to prevent detachment during movement or sweating.

  • Lifestyle and Clothing: Consider whether belts, waistbands, or swimsuits may interfere with your set’s location or tubing.

  • Ease of Use: Some sets require a spring-loaded inserter, while others can be placed manually. Choose what feels safest and most convenient.

  • Disconnection Options: Some infusion sets disconnect at the site, while others disconnect a few inches away, which may be easier for certain body types or clothing styles.

🔍 Types of Infusion Sets: Metal vs. Teflon

Each infusion set for insulin pump use has advantages and drawbacks:

▪️ Metal (Steel) Needle Sets

  • Insert straight in at a 90° angle

  • Preferred for their reliability, especially in children or during pregnancy

  • Less likely to kink

  • Can be uncomfortable for some users

▪️ Teflon (Plastic Cannula) Sets

  • Available in both 90° and 30–45° angles

  • Softer and more flexible

  • Can kink under the skin, leading to delivery failure

  • Often used with an automatic insertion device

Clinical evidence suggests that angled Teflon sets may be more effective for users with thin body composition to reduce the risk of kinking [1].

💡 Pro Tips for Success with Your Infusion Set

  • Start Small: Use the shortest needle or cannula that delivers reliable insulin unless you’re experiencing leakage or poor absorption.

  • Try Before You Commit: Many pump suppliers offer sample kits so you can try different sets before committing.

  • Secure Your Set: Use barrier wipes, extra adhesive, or overpatches like GrifGrips or Skin Tac for added security.

  • Troubleshoot Promptly: If you experience frequent highs, check for signs of kinking, inflammation, or loose tubing.

🛑 When to Consider a Change

If you experience any of the following, consider switching to a different infusion set:

  • Repeated site irritation or allergic reactions

  • Frequent detachment during activity or sleep

  • Unexplained highs despite correct dosing

  • Painful or difficult insertions

Speak with your healthcare provider or certified diabetes educator before switching infusion sets. You may also benefit from a clinical review of your insertion technique or device settings.

📘 Improve Technique for Better Outcomes

Proper placement of the infusion set reduces the risk of failure and improves glucose control. Best practices include:

  • Clean the site thoroughly with an alcohol or antiseptic wipe

  • Pinch up skin if you’re very lean and using a straight-in set

  • Rotate sites every 2–3 days to avoid tissue damage

  • Use an inserter device if available for more consistent depth and angle

More in-depth guidance on infusion set use and pump therapy techniques is available in the book Pumping Insulin, widely considered a go-to resource for advanced diabetes management.

🔗 Additional Resources

Final Thoughts

Finding the best infusion set isn’t one-size-fits-all. It takes trial and error, honest evaluation, and sometimes a bit of experimentation. But when you find a set that fits your body, lifestyle, and activity level, it can make insulin pump therapy smoother and more effective.