Evaluation and management of the diabetic foot.

Awe JAA

Associate Professor of Surgery, Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, Nigeria.

E-mail: doset2007@yahoo.com 

Accepted 01 December, 2013

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is rapidly emerging as the new global epidemic. If a diabetic lives long enough he is likely to develop some of its complications including diabetic foot (DF). DF is a major complication of long standing diabetes, accounting for nearly 35% of all hospital admissions in diabetic clinics. It also accounts for nearly 80% of all non-traumatic amputations of the lower limb. Due to its significant morbidity and mortality, DF has a staggering economic impact not only on the individual and his family but also on the society. Foot complications closely related to neuropathy and obstructive peripheral vascular disease, are responsible for more than one (1) million of leg amputations every year. Diabetic foot infections are associated with high morbidity and most diabetic foot infections begin with a wound and once an infection occurs, the risk of hospitalization and amputation increases dramatically. DF is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus and may be the initial presentation of an undiagnosed diabetes mellitus; therefore a proper understanding of how to evaluate and manage this complication of diabetes mellitus is very important. This paper aims to provide a current concept review on the evaluation, diagnosis and management of diabetic foot infections.

Keywords: Diabetes, Diabetic foot.