Diabetic foot

Overview

Diabetic foot (DF) is a serious late complication of diabetes associated with high morbidity and mortality, often leading to lower limb amputation. Risk factors for DF include neuropathy, infection, and ischemia. The prevention of ulceration is essential for reducing amputation rate. Effective follow-up of patients and application of preventive approaches such as using of appropriate shoes and foot care can reduce the incidence of ulcerations by up to 50 %. DF treatment is very expensive and includes offloading of the affected foot, treatment of infection and revascularization. Local treatment and satisfactory diabetes control are also very important. Professional care for these patients should be directed to specialized podiatric clinics due to the need for a multidisciplinary approach.

Keywords:

diabetes mellitus – diabetic foot – amputation