The first artificial pancreas is implanted in Brazil

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The country’s health regulator Anvisa approved the technology used in the United States and Europe at the cost of almost R$20,000 (US$3,700). The Diabetes Association Brazil says it will ask the Ministry of Health to evaluate the device’s supply through SUS.

The first implant of an artificial pancreas in Brazil was performed on a Curitiba woman who had diabetes.

Larissa, 30, has type 1 diabetes when the body stops producing insulin or produces a minimal amount. Because of this, she has to wake up several times at night to do this control. The emergency kit is always at hand.

The relief came with a device, which Larissa implanted this Monday (31) in her stomach, in a quick procedure, without surgery.

The so-called artificial pancreas carries an insulin reservoir connected to a sensor that measures the blood sugar level every five minutes. It receives the information via Bluetooth, a technology that allows devices to be connected without the need for a wire.

When needed, the pancreas automatically releases the hormone in the correct dose. The device can stabilize the blood glucose and keep the sugar levels for a longer time within the goal set by the doctors. And this, in the long term, brings many benefits to the patient.

The technology, developed in the United States, is already used there and in Europe. Here in Brazil, it was approved by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) at almost R$ 20 thousand. The Diabetes Association Brazil says it will ask the Ministry of Health to evaluate the device’s supply through SUS.

With the novelty in her waistband, Larissa plans to get pregnant this year. A dream she has postponed for years because of her diabetes.

The Ministry of Health said that the National Commission for Incorporation of Technologies in SUS has not yet received any request about the artificial pancreas.