Preventing and treating foot complications associated with diabetes mellitus

A comprehensive foot examination is essential for the appropriate assessment, prevention and management of diabetic foot complicationsPeripheral neuropathy is concurrent with 90% of foot ulcers and is a major contributor to the development of ulcers in patients with diabetes mellitusMany patients with diabetes mellitus who have peripheral vascular disease are asymptomatic until they develop tissue lossIn the context of tissue loss, increasing ischaemia elevates the risk of limb loss and, therefore, healing usually requires revascularizationRevascularization can be performed using endovascular or open surgery techniques, or a combination of both, and depends on the patient's health, the location of the disease and local surgical expertiseOffloading, debridement, antibiotics, optimal glycaemic control and a multidisciplinary team are fundamental to the effective treatment of diabetic foot complications