Diabetic foot ulcers: old problems—new technologies

Abstract

The association of diabetic foot ulcers with a high incidence of amputation, morbidity and mortality is well documented in the international literature including guidelines from the American Diabetes Association, the International Consensus Panel of Diabetic Ulcers, and the German literature on Diabetic Foot Syndrome [1–3]. The cost of care incurred by the diabetic with foot lesions is surpassed only by the total cost of medical problems related to the disease. A brief review of the pathophysiology of diabetic ulcers and an understanding of the difference between chronic wounds will facilitate decisions related to the use of new technologies, including recombinant growth factors. The following overview of new technology related to diabetic foot ulcer care will summarize relevant information related to acute versus chronic wounds, assist in defining a chronic wound, and provide concise guidelines on appropriate prescription of new technologies.