In the summer of 2003, Medtronic Diabetes removed its watertight claim from the labeling for its MiniMed Paradigm® insulin pumps, as a result of a number of units that had experienced water penetration through cracks in the insulin pump case. While insulin pumps are designed and manufactured to be quite sturdy, they are not bullet proof, and cracking is possible. Because we cannot prevent cracking with absolute certainty, we continue to label our product as water resistant, not waterproof/watertight, and recommend that insulin pump users do not intentionally submerge their insulin pump in water. We believe that our position is the most responsible one to take and creates the appropriate level of awareness for our customers. At the same time, should our customers experience water ingress for any reason, we will replace the insulin pump according to our normal warranty policy.
Other insulin pump companies claim watertight status in their advertising materials, but warn of the same potential for cracking and water ingress in separate documents. The attached excerpt is from Animas' recent summer 2004 customer newsletter:
"Check the pump case for cracks. If the pump has been dropped or knocked against a hard surface, it is possible the case may have cracked. If you see a crack in the case, do not put the pump in water."
Similarly, the following is from Smith's Deltec User's Manual (p. 73):
"As long as the pump's labels and outer shell are intact (no cracks or chips), the pump is watertight.."
Ultimately, there are many things to consider in choosing an insulin pump company - technology, service, support, experience, and track record, as well as vision and commitment to the future. As the world leader in insulin pump therapy, we at Medtronic Diabetes continue to set the standard in these areas with our MiniMed Paradigm insulin pumps.
Still, if watertight is a deciding factor for you, make sure you really understand the truth about watertight.
For more information on watertight or any other area of interest in our products and services call 1-866-948-6633 (toll-free) to speak to an insulin pump therapy consultant.