Angiosomes and Wound Care in the Diabetic Foot

Three major arteries supply the foot and ankle and create vascular redundancy through multiple arterial-arterial connections. A Doppler device may be used to map out the patient's vascular tree, including the direction of flow. Knowledge of the 6 angiosomes of the foot and ankle combined with an adequate Doppler examination can optimize the success of any planned treatment or procedure. This information is essential for successful limb salvage in diabetic patients and patients with peripheral vascular disease and ultimately helps a surgeon to decide whether a reconstruction is possible or an amputation is indicated.