It is important that your insulin pump is not exposed to x-rays, radiation and strong magnetic fields.
The very strong magnets in MRI can interfere with the motor in your pump and change how much insulin you receive. If you use a metal (stainless steel) inner cannula, it should also not be exposed to strong magnets from MRI. Soft cannulas are not a problem.
What do I do if you have a medical test?
All insulin pump companies recommend that you disconnect or take your pump off for many tests where there is a risk of exposure to x-rays, radiation or MRI.
You will have to leave your pump outside the room where the test is done. Ask that it be locked away or give it to a friend or family member if they are going with you to the test.
Insulin adjustments
No changes needed.
Take a bolus to replace missed basal insulin.
Contact your diabetes educator.
What if medical staff suggests that I keep my pump on?
Insulin pumps are a very specialized way to manage diabetes. Not all medical personnel are familiar with them. It is your right to follow the advice listed in this information sheet. This advice was carefully reviewed to make sure that you and your pump are safe during these tests.
If you are unsure:
Call your pump’s 24/7 support line (number on back of pump).
Contact your Diabetes Educator or the Endocrine and Diabetes Centre:
613-738-8333 (regular hours)
613-761-4221 (after hours-urgent), ask for the Endocrinologist on call
Disconnect and lock pump outside testing area | No need to disconnect |
| CT Scan and MRI (if using a metal cannula or Omnipod, remove before entering and insert a new one after the test) | Ultrasound (ensure transducer does not point directly at pump or insertion site) |
| Body X-rays, Fluoroscopy | Colonoscopy |
| Mammogram and bone density | Laser surgery (may cause pump alarm) |
| Nuclear stress test (stay connected during dye injection, disconnect for actual test) | Dental X-rays (cover pump with lead apron) |
| Therapeutic radiation / Oncology (cancer treatment) | EKG (electrocardiogram) |
| Cardiac catheterization | Pacemaker / Automatic implantable |