Infusion Pumps A Brief History

The first patent for an automatic hypodermic syringe was awarded in 1898 and marked the beginning of modern infusion pump technology. These early pumps were large, bulky machines that were predominantly used in hospitals to deliver fluids, nutrients and medications over extended periods of time. Advances in engineering and materials sciences during the middle of the 20th century led to smaller, more portable infusion devices. However, they were still predominantly used for long-term inpatient care.

The Microprocessor Revolution

Infusion Pumps as The true revolution in infusion pipes began in the 1970s with the arrival of microprocessor technology. Microprocessors allowed infusion pipes to be programmed, controlled digitally and made much smaller. In 1978, the first true ambulatory infusion pump was introduced – the CADD-1 pump made by Smiths Industries (now ICU Medical). Weighing only 450 grams, it could be worn outside of the hospital and revolutionized outpatient care. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, infusion pipes continued to shrink in size while gaining new functionalities. Features like batteries, alarms, customizable programming and sophisticated drug libraries became standard.

Modern Infusion Pumps Technology

Today's infusion pipes represent the peak of over a century of technological refinement. They come in a variety of form factors to suit different clinical needs:

- Ambulatory/Wearable Pumps: Used for outpatient chemotherapy, antibiotics, IV hydration, etc. Slim and lightweight for unhindered mobility. Popular brands include the AccuDose and Sapphire by Hospira.

- Elastomeric Pumps: Flexible bags that infuse fluids at a preset rate, controlled by ambient pressure. Ideal for palliative/hospice care due to their simplicity and low cost. Examples are the Baxter Infinity or Braun Perfusor.

- Syringe Pumps: Utilize a leadscrew or linear actuator to gradually push fluid out of a syringe barrel. Versatile devices used in surgical suites, emergency rooms and ICUs. Leaders are the Becton Dickinson Pumps and B. Braun Perfusor Space.

- Smart/Large Volume Pumps: Feature computerized programming, customizable drug libraries, dose error-reduction technology and capability to deliver multiple fluids simultaneously. Used in critical care units of major hospitals. Popular brands are B. Braun Space and BD Alaris Pumps.

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