General Info

Diabetic Foot Clinic

Diabetes, a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels, is a progressive disease that affects multiple organs. Advances in treatments and medications have made acute complications less common, but long-term complications remain significant, particularly in the form of diabetic neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, and diabetic foot ulcers. Diabetic foot issues are a leading cause of hospitalization for diabetes patients, with foot complications accounting for approximately 20% of hospital visits. Alarmingly, 50-70% of all amputations are linked to diabetes, with a second amputation risk of 50% within two years. Preventive care and timely treatment are crucial in mitigating these risks.

Symptoms of Diabetic Foot

The first signs of diabetic foot often manifest as foot ulcers caused by:

• Uncontrolled blood sugar and poor dietary management
• Vascular issues (diabetic vasculopathy)
• Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy)
• Inadequate foot hygiene

Key symptoms include:

• Leg pain due to insufficient blood flow caused by narrowed or blocked arteries
• Coldness or numbness in the legs and feet
• Discoloration, hair loss, and non-healing ulcers
• Resting pain in advanced cases

Diagnosis of Peripheral Artery Disease and Diabetic Foot

The diagnostic process begins with a clinical examination to check for pulse abnormalities. If no pulse is detected, Doppler ultrasonography is performed, followed by advanced imaging techniques such as CT angiography, MR angiography, or catheter-based angiography for precise evaluation.

Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease

When a patient presents with a diabetic foot ulcer or gangrene, the following steps are taken:

1. Medical Therapy: Includes antibiotics, blood thinners, and glucose regulation.
2. Orthopedic Debridement: Performed if immediate removal of necrotic tissue is required.
3. Vascular Treatment: Addressed through minimally invasive techniques like:
   • Balloon angioplasty or stent placement
   • Thrombectomy and atherectomy for removing clots or plaques
   • Bypass surgery for extensive blockages

Minimally invasive techniques offer advantages like shorter hospital stays, no general anesthesia, and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery.

Diabetic Foot Clinic Workflow

The Diabetic Foot Clinic at Bahçeşehir University Medical Park Göztepe Hospital ensures rapid diagnosis and treatment through a multidisciplinary approach:

1. Orthopedic Specialist: Performs the initial evaluation and emergency debridement if needed.
2. Endocrinologist: Assesses blood glucose levels and initiates medical therapy.
3. Interventional Radiologist: Conducts vascular imaging and performs interventions like angioplasty or stenting.
4. Vascular Surgeon: Performs bypass surgery if required.
5. Patients are monitored regularly to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

Prevention of Diabetic Foot

To prevent diabetic foot complications and reduce recurrence risk:

• Monitor blood sugar levels consistently and follow prescribed medications.
• Maintain a balanced diet and develop healthy eating habits.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
• Engage in regular physical activity (e.g., 8,000 steps daily).
• Practice daily foot hygiene, including washing and wearing clean socks.
• Use specialized footwear and socks designed for diabetics.
• Avoid walking barefoot to reduce injury risks.

Disclaimer: This content was developed with contributions from the Medical Park Editorial Board and is intended for informational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and treatment, consult a healthcare professional.