AMT products are employed only in a specialised area of Asthma therapy. Asthma is a common condition frequently related to various allergies, and unfortunately with apparently increasing frequency.

In these pages we will only address those limited areas where we have a direct interest. However we have also researched the internet resources in this field and have provided a number of links which we hope will be useful to those interested in this general topic.

We have also included a page which explains why Pumps, which provide a continuous infusion, may offer benefits over more conventional intermittent injections.

There are, at present, two pioneering centres in the UK who are using pumps to provide continuous subcutaneous infusion of Terbutaline as a means to control some extremely difficult cases of asthma. To provide a professional overview of this application we have had permission to reproduce a recently published article which discusses the control of Brittle Asthma and refers to the use of infusion pumps in this area.

Our immediate interest is in the application of some of our specialist Infusion Sets as the product of choice in this area. Two products of particular benefit in this therapy are the Sof-Set Infusion Sets
Sof-Set Infusion Sets and the Silhouette Infusion Sets
Silhouette Infusion Sets. The special feature of these sets is that they use soft teflon catheters in place of conventional needles. These are much more comfortable for the individual and significantly reduce the problems of allergic reaction at the infusion sites, thus enabling the opportunity for long term infusion to make this therapy effective. Both the Crono and the Micrel Range of pumps may be used for this application.

Main Relevant Products: Sof-Set Infusion Sets
Sof-Set Infusion Sets, Silhouette Infusion Sets
Silhouette Infusion Sets, Cane Crono Infusion pump
Cane Crono Infusion Pump

An increasing number of patients are undergoing home therapy for the treament of primary pulmonary hypertension. This is a critical application which requires the maximum levels of safety and reliability. After substantial investigations by principal UK hospitals, the Cane Crono PCA has been adopted as the pump of choice for this therapy. With newer, more flexible drugs available in this area, there are significant benefits to be derived from this therapy.

Main Relevant Products: Cane Crono PCA pump
Cane Crono PCA Pump.

With the recent introduction of Immunoglobulin drugs licenced for subcutaneous infusion, a need has been created for a suitable device for the delivery of these drugs. The viscous nature of these drugs, and the short infusion times currently required are a challenge to current pump technology, and the Super PID pump has been specifically developed to meet this requirement.

Main Relevant Products: Cane Crono Super-PID Pump
Cane Crono Super-PID Pump, Contact Infusion Sets
Contact Infusion Sets.

There is widespread use of portable infusion devices for the administration of therapeutic agents in oncology. Continuous infusion of these drugs, as opposed to large bolus injections, enables them to be employed more effectively, whilst helping to minimise some of the extreme side effects that may often occur. Frequently administered i-v, these can nevertheless utilise the portable pumps such as the Crono or Micrel Rythmic range, which allow for larger volume infusions than the standard products.

Main Relevant Products: Cane Crono PCA pump
Cane Crono PCA Pump

The most common application in this area is the continuous administration of Diamorphine as a means to control pain, frequently associated with end stage cancer therapy. This uses a simple single-rate infusion pump, such as those manufacturered by SMS-Graseby in the UK, or by our own new Crono or Micrel product range.

Main Relevant Products: Sof-Set Infusion Sets
Sof-Set Infusion Sets, Silhouette Infusion Sets
Silhouette Infusion Sets, Cane Crono PCA pump
Cane Crono PCA Pump

Pumps are employed in the area of fertility control. This appears to be a diminishing practice recently, but we have had some successes in this area. The most frequent application has been the use of GnHRH and LHRH infusions. A particular requirement for pumps in this area is for drugs to be administered as pulses at fixed intervals, typically 90 minutes, to mimic the normal hormone release mechanisms.

Main Relevant Products: All Infusion sets, Cane Crono Infusion pump
Cane Crono Infusion Pump ,

More recently we have become aware of the use of subcutaneous infusion to provide a route for medium volume re-hydration. This has been developed to avoid the need to use the more conventional intravenous route in areas where there may not be the clinical support approriate, for example in nursing homes. This therapy is termed HYPODERMOCLYSIS. While we have little direct knowledge of this therapy we have compiled a list of references which you may find helpful.

Main Relevant Products: Sof-Set Infusion Sets
Sof-Set Infusion Sets

The continuous subcutaneous infusion of Apomorphine is used in the treatment and support of this condition. Pumps for this therapy are principally supplied by Britannia Pharmaceuticals in the form of the Apo-Go pump. The Applied Medical Technology range of infusion sets are entirely compatible with this system.

Main Relevant Products: All Infusion sets.

These are areas of therapy where there is little information readily available. We would welcome any contributions which provide additional information on these topics, which we will publish and/or link to from these pages. Please email us if you have something you would like to contribute.