Vaskulárna medicína 2/2014

Comprehensive care of patients with diabetic foot syndrome

Diabetic foot syndrome is one of the long-term complications of diabetes mellitus. Diabetics with DFS are endangered by foot ulcer occurrence. The crucial source of the ulcer is polyneuropathy and/or ischemia. During the DFS therapy it is important to have a multifactorial approach and a more conservative attitude residing in podiatric care, the early administration of antibiotics in case of foot infection and metabolic parameters correction. It is vital to attempt revascularisation in case of ischemia and surgically treat the foot (incision, drainage, nephrectomy, small amputation). The prevention consists of watching problematic patients and removing their pre-ulcer lesions, redundant skin and nails. It is necessary to educate and lead the patient to developing good foot-care habits, choosing the right footwear and preventing injuries.

Keywords: diabetic foot syndrome, diabetic neuropathy, diabetic angiopathy, infection, ulcer, therapy, education.