Abstract
Background: Diabetes is a silent killer, wherein prolonged poor glucose control could lead to acute diabetic ulcers that are responsible for foot ulcers in the lower body extremities. A diabetic foot is a skin sore formed as a result of skin tissue breaking down and exposing the tissue layers underneath. Chronic conditions of the disease lead to amputation of the limb which is a lifelong disability as well as morbidity.
Objective: We have compiled an interesting and informative review on diabetic foot ulceration. Topics and subtopics discussed in the article have scientific relevance for the readers of health management journals.
Main Outcome and Results: The cascade of events that lead to ulceration is responsible for degrading vascular changes in nerve fibers, resulting in poor motor neuropathy in the lower extremities. Therefore, detection of diabetic foot and ulceration in the early stage is crucial for proper disease management. Various tools in this regard have been used to detect and monitor diabetic foot occurrence apart from a conventional assessment such as the severity of the infection, infection of the skin, extent or size of the ulcer, depth of tissue infection, and loss of sensation from various parts of the lower body. Furthermore, recent advancement in medical technology has also given some critical diagnostic tools EMG (Electromyography), NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity), PPG (Photoplethysmography), and SSEP (Somatosensory Evoked Potential).
Conclusion: The review discusses various complications related to people with a lived experience of diabetic foot ulcers and some advanced tools to diagnose them. Furthermore, a conclusive discussion on a holistic view of diabetic foot diagnosis methods and available treatments has been summarized which could be more explored for better detection/management of the disease.
Publisher
Australasian College of Health Service Management
Subject
Health Information Management,Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health,Health Policy