Diabetic foot ulcers: importance of a multidisciplinary approach and microsurgical limb rescue

Abstract

Diabetic foot ulcers are the main risk factor for non-traumatic amputations in people with diabetes. A succesful intervention requires a thorough understanding of the pathogenesis and a timely and standardized implementation of an effective treatment. A multidisciplinary approach is needed to initially control and treat multiple factors that cause severe diabetic foot ulceration. Debridement, infection control, and revascularization are key steps in wound stabilization and preparation for successful reconstruction. Microsurgery and supermicrosurgery provide a well-vascularized tissue to control infection, an adequate shoe contour, durability and solid anchorage to resist shearing forces during gait. In this way, the salvage of the limb can be achieved, improving the quality of life and increasing the survival rate.