ESSENTIALS OF PRESSURE ULCER TREATMENT - THE DIABETIC EXPERIENCE

BACKGROUND. Diabetes accounts for over half of the lower extremity amp utations in the United States. However, ulcers of the diabetic foot ca n often be treated successfully and amputations avoided. OBJECTIVE. To review treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. RESULTS. Physicians must re cognize the critical clinical and diagnostic features of ischemic and neuropathic ulcers. Therapy is directed towards vascular repair in the ischemic ulcer and relief of weight bearing through casting and shoes with molded insoles in the neuropathic ulcer. Sound principles of wou nd care apply to all ulcers. CONCLUSION. For successful preventive foo t care patients and physicians need to understand how and why ulcers f orm and the rationale for the types of footwear and care necessary to prevent ulcers.