Publication at Second Faculty of Medicine |
2010
Abstract
Lower limb defects, particularly the diabetic foot syndrome, are commonly encountered in diabetic patients. Diabetic foot syndrome refers to the destruction of lower limb tissues distally from the ankle joint in diabetics, which results in extensive ulcerations, gangrene, and, in extreme cases, amputation of the limb.
The major factors resulting in diabetic foot include diabetic neuropathy (sensomotor and autonomous), limb ischaemia (angiopathy), decreased joint mobility, and the pressure exerted on the sole of the foot. Ulcerations often develop and are difficult to heal because of infections.
The paper deals with the causes, diagnosis, and principles of treatment of the diabetic foot syndrome in patients with diabetes mellitus.