Model-based Subcutaneous Insulin-Therapy in Preterm Infants

Background The management of transient hyperglycemia in preterm infants is part of the daily routine in neonatal intensive care units. It is usually treated with reduction of glucose intake and, if persistent, with continuous insulin application. The goal is to achieve normoglycemia and avoid hypoglycemia. Intravenous (iv) administration is still often used for this purpose. But subcutaneous insulin administration (CSII) can also provide safe and accurate insulin therapy. This form of therapy can potentially be improved with model-based support. However, to date, this combination has only been used to a significant extent in adults in the intensive care unit with. At the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, model-directed iv-insulin therapy is also used for premature infants routinely.