The cost of diabetic foot ulcers and amputations to the National Health Service in England

A multifactorial intervention to improve cardiovascular outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes and current or previous diabetic foot ulcer disease: Protocol for a multi-centre randomised control trial (MiFoot study)

BACKGROUND

In the United Kingdom, the prevalence of diabetes-related foot ulcer disease (DFUD) is 6.3%, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in people with DFUD. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a multifactorial intervention to reduce CVD events and mortality in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and DFUD.

METHODS

The MiFoot study is a multi-centre, pragmatic randomised controlled trial to test intervention effectiveness and cost-effectiveness compared to usual care that will include an internal feasibility study and a process evaluation. English-speaking adults (≥18 years; n = 392) with T2D and current/previous (within 5 years) DFUD will be recruited from multiple sites across the United Kingdom and randomised 1:1 to intervention (MiFoot multifactorial intervention plus usual care) or control (usual care), with data collected at baseline, 12- and 24-month follow-up. The MiFoot intervention comprises an individualised assessment with a healthcare practitioner to optimise treatment and assess the suitability of physical activity participation; group-based disease self management education and physical activity sessions; and a digital-based programme, consisting of cohort-relevant topics, physical activity guidance and peer support functionality. The primary outcome will be extended major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, i.e. myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiovascular death, peripheral arterial bypass, coronary artery bypass, coronary angioplasty or peripheral artery angioplasty) at 24 months.

DISCUSSION

This study will provide evidence on the feasibility and clinical effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of a multifactorial intervention to prevent or slow the progression of CVD-related complications in the extremely high-risk population with T2D and DFUD.

Modeling treatment of diabetic wounds with oxygen therapy and senolytic drug

Diabetic wounds are common in patients with type 2 diabetes; they are ischemic and inflammatory, and difficult to heal without intervention. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a standard treatment, but its effectiveness is limited to a subset of the aging population. Senescent fibroblasts, a hallmark of aging, impair wound healing, and senolytic drugs, like quercetin (Q), which target senescent cells, may improve healing. In this study, we developed a mathematical model that defines biological aging through two parameters, η and [Formula: see text], that decline with age. These parameters reflect the biological age of an individual, where η represents fibroblast proliferation and [Formula: see text] represents the production of the angiogenetic protein VEGF. Our model predicts that treatment with only HBOT achieves wound closure, within normal expectable time, for patients with a limited subset pairs of [Formula: see text], and this subset is increased to a larger subset by combining Q with HBOT. The two subsets of [Formula: see text] are determined explicitly by simulations of the model. To make these results applicable in clinical setting, one will have to relate the aging parameters η and [Formula: see text] to tangible marks of biological-aging factors.

Cost effectiveness of topical wound oxygen therapy for chronic diabetic foot ulcers

AIMS

To estimate the cost effectiveness of Topical Wound Oxygen therapy (TWO2) for chronic diabetic foot ulcers.

METHODS

A Markov model was created to estimate the cost effectiveness of TWO2 over 2 years. Clinical outcome probabilities were estimated from a recent multi-national randomised controlled trial. Diabetic footcare costs were estimated for the National Health Service in England, based on national cost collections, published literature and expert opinion. Model inputs were varied in sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

Base case results indicate that at a weekly TWO2 price of £650 for up to 12 weeks, total diabetic footcare costs over 2 years are £5038 lower for a patient treated with TWO2 than for standard care, and QALYs are 0.07 higher. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis estimates an 81 % likelihood that the treatment is cost effective at a willingness to pay threshold of £25,000 per QALY.

CONCLUSIONS

Base case results indicate that if the clinical outcomes in the RCT are replicated in routine care, TWO2 is a dominant treatment, with lower cost and improved outcomes relative to standard care. Sensitivity analysis shows a high probability that the treatment is cost effective at a willingness to pay threshold of £25,000 per QALY.

Cost-effectiveness of swab versus tissue sampling for infected diabetic foot ulcers from the CODIFI2 randomised controlled trial

AIMS

To compare the cost-effectiveness of wound swabbing versus tissue sampling for infected diabetic foot ulcers.

METHODS

This multi-centre, Phase III, prospective, unblinded, two-arm parallel group, randomised controlled trial compared clinical (reported elsewhere) and economic outcomes of swab versus tissue sampling over a 52-104 week period. Resource use was logged using case record forms and patient questionnaire at weeks 4, 12, 26, 39, 52 and 104, costed using laboratory and published sources from the UK NHS perspective, at 2021/2022 price-year. EQ-5D-3L questionnaires issued at these time points were used to derive quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). To account for imbalances such as age, a regression-based approach was used to estimate survival, expected costs and QALYs between the sampling arms. Available case analysis (ACA) and multiple imputation methods were applied for self reported missing data, and ACA for researcher-collected data (survival, hospitalisations and antibiotic use). Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was used to assess the uncertainty of economic results.

RESULTS

We recruited 149 participants (75 swab, 74 tissue) from 21 UK sites, between 07 May 2019 and 28 April 2022 (last follow-up 28 April 2023). Planned sample size was 730 participants, for 90% power to detect 12.5% difference in healing at 52 weeks, but the trial stopped early due to low recruitment. Expected QALYs in the swab-sampling arm were greater than in the tissue-sampling arm at weeks 26, 52 and 104. The cost of tissue sampling was greater than of swabbing when including antibiotics and hospitalisation. Swab sampling participants had higher QALYs and lower costs across weeks 26-52, reducing slightly by week 104.

CONCLUSIONS

Because of higher costs, lower QALYs and lack of evidence of benefit, potentially due to the trial being underpowered, tissue sampling was dominated by wound swabbing in the cost-effectiveness analysis.

Development and evaluation of a novel 3D in-shoe plantar strain measurement system: STAMPS3D

The formation of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) is consequential of peripheral neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease and foot deformity, leading to altered foot biomechanics and plantar loads. Plantar load comprises of normal pressure and shear stress, however, there are currently no in-shoe devices capable of measuring both components. The STrain Analysis and Mapping of the Plantar Surface (STAMPS) system, developed at the University of Leeds, utilises Digital Image Correlation (DIC) to measure the strain captured by a plastically deformable insole, as a method to understand plantar load during gait. A 2D DIC software was used to capture cumulative plantar strain and displacement pointwise data, however this method was limited to the analysis of planar surfaces. To address this, 3D instrumentation and DIC methods have been developed and implemented into the STAMPS3D system, used as a tool to capture data that is representative of the non-planar nature of plantar surfaces of the foot. A case-study is used to demonstrate how STAMPS3D can measure multi-dimensional strain, bringing potential to improve clinical screening of DFU risk.

Economic burden of podiatric care for diabetic foot ulcers in the Czech Republic: A prospective multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

Diabetic foot (DF), especially DF ulcers (DFUs) are a relatively frequent and financially burdensome late-stage complication of diabetes. However, data on the costs of podiatric care in the Czech Republic are scarce. The aim of this prospective multicenter study was to determine the total costs associated with long-term podiatric care in selected foot clinics across the Czech Republic.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 119 patients with DFUs (mean age of 68 ± 11 years, diabetes duration of 19 ± 11 years, HbA1c level of 62 ± 14 mmol/mol, composite WIfI score of 3 ± 2, 33 % had new DFUs, 37 % previous amputations, and 50 % had peripheral artery disease (PAD)) from 10 podiatric foot clinics in the Czech Republic were enrolled in our financial analysis. Direct and indirect costs associated with podiatric care - diagnostic and treatment methods - including angiological, radiological, and microbiological examinations, blood sampling, prescribed materials for local therapy, antibiotics, surgical procedures, offloading devices, hospital services and additional expenses such as patient transportation, doctors' visits, home care assistance, and work incapacity - were monitored over a 6-month period using an electronic database.

RESULTS

The average cost of podiatric care per patient over a 6-month period was €2,506 with median €1,320. The largest expenses were spent on therapeutic procedures (51.4 %). Costs for patients hospitalized during the study period were significantly higher than for outpatients (€7,923 vs. €1,304 on average; P < 0.001). Among hospitalized patients, the main costs were hospital services (32 %), therapeutic procedures (26 %), and antibiotic and local therapies (20 %). Among outpatients, therapeutic procedures accounted for 74 % of the total costs. Newly developed DFUs or PAD were not linked to significantly increased costs. The composite WIfI score, primarily the wound component, was the only parameter that significantly positively correlated with the total podiatric costs (r = 0.434; 95 % CI 0.279-0.559; P < 0.0001). Other patient characteristics such as age, diabetes duration, DFU duration, and HbA1c level did not show significant cost correlations.

CONCLUSIONS

On average, podiatric care for patients with DFUs in the Czech Republic is 3 to 9 times more expensive than standard diabetes healthcare. The expenses for hospitalized patients are almost 6 times higher than for outpatients. The composite WIfI score was the most significant indicator of podiatric financial burden.

Role of therapeutic treatment with antiseptic solutions in the care of diabetic foot ulcers

BACKGROUND

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a prevalent and severe complication of diabetes, leading to significant morbidity, impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and economic burden on healthcare systems. The complexity of DFUs often results in prolonged healing and high recurrence rates. Effective management strategies are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing complications.

AIM

This study aimed to review the efficacy of antiseptic solutions in the treatment and care of DFUs.

METHOD

A literature analysis was conducted to review clinical studies and guidelines on the use and efficacy of antiseptic solutions, particularly Octenisept® (0.1% octenidine dihydrochloride and 2% 2-phenoxyethanol). The review focused on the antimicrobial properties, biofilm-disruption capabilities and wound healing outcomes associated with the use of antiseptic solutions in DFU management.

RESULTS

Antiseptic solutions have potential to reduce bioburden, disrupt biofilm and modulate healing. There is a need to balance antimicrobial clinical efficacy with tolerability and cytotoxicity. The use and choice of adjunctive antiseptic solutions must be tailored to the patient, as antimicrobial efficacy can vary for antiseptic solutions, particularly for hypochlorous solutions. It is important to use products according to their instructions, with consideration of minimum contact time to maximise clinical efficacy. Low-pressure irrigation is adjunctive, and concurrent wound-bed preparation, including debridement, frequent inspection, infection and moisture control, remain important.

CONCLUSIONS

The therapeutic application of antiseptic solutions in DFU care presents a promising approach to enhancing wound healing and reducing infection risks. Integrating these solutions into standard wound care protocols could lower the incidence of complications, improve HRQoL and decrease the economic burden associated with diabetic foot disease. Further large-scale studies are recommended to validate these findings and refine guidelines for antiseptic use in DFU management.

Investigating the Prevalence of Fungi in Diabetic Ulcers: An Under-Recognised Contributor to Polymicrobial Biofilms

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are common complications for diabetic patients, often exacerbated by complex polymicrobial biofilm infections. While the majority of DFU studies are bacterial focused, fungi have also been identified. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of fungi in DFUs, as well as their potential role and influence on persistence and wound healing. Consecutive DFU swabs were collected from 128 patients (n = 349). Fungal positivity was assessed using enhanced culture and real-time qPCR. Routine microbiology cultures were carried out as part of standard care in the clinics, and their results were then compared to our laboratory investigation. Routine and enhanced culture resulted in similar rates of fungal detection (~9%), whereas qPCR resulted in a higher rate of detection (31%). Notably, the predominant yeast Candida parapsilosis was present in ischaemic and penetrating bone wounds. These findings support existing evidence of fungal presence in DFUs. We demonstrated that routine diagnostic methods are sufficient for fungal detection, but enhanced culture methods allow for more precise fungal identification. Finally, while fungal presence does not appear to impact patient outcomes in our study, their role within these infections remains poorly understood, and further studies are needed to fully understand their relationship to the microbiome.

"I Never Thought They Would Ever Take Off My Toes": A Qualitative Illness Trajectory Study in People With Diabetic Foot Syndrome

Diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) can be prevented, but due to various obstacles preventive measures can only be implemented inadequately. Person-centred care forms the foundation for effective support measures. However, the current lack of a longitudinal perspective on patients' Illness trajectory hinders the development and provision of tailored support. The aim was to describe the illness trajectory experienced by patients with DFS. To investigate the research question we used a qualitative design based on the 'Interpretive Description' and conducted a purposive sample of individual interviews in a university hospital's wound outpatient department. Data were analysed according to Braun and Clark's reflexive thematic analysis using the illness trajectory model as a theoretical framework. We included 12 patients with diabetic foot ulcers and recorded wound duration, number of ulceration recurrences and rate of amputation. We identified six illness trajectory-relevant phases: (1) silent or non-apparent diabetes mellitus (DM); (2) occurrence of the first wound: present DFS; (3) needing inpatient treatment; (4) from a mosquito emerges an elephant; (5) being in outpatient treatment and experiencing wound-free periods and (6) the occurrence of recurrences. Participants stated both self-management and care coordination behaviours regarding their treatment. However, due to knowledge gaps, misunderstandings or a desire for 'normalcy' and independence from the healthcare system as they juggled multiple comorbidity-related responsibilities, they often acted contrary to behavioural recommendations. 'Silent diabetes' is not always prioritised in disease management.

Effectiveness of online education on thermography-based diabetic foot ulcer prevention for wound care specialists: a single-group quasi-experimental study

Background

While there is an urgent need worldwide to establish methods that prevent diabetic foot ulcers, the effectiveness of a prevention protocol using thermography has been reported. As the number of diabetic patients in Indonesia is increasing, an online program for wound care specialists was developed to disseminate this protocol. The present study evaluated the impact of an online program on wound care specialists' knowledge of diabetic foot ulcer prevention using thermography.

Methods

This single-group quasi-experimental study was conducted in cooperation with the Indonesian Wound Enterostomal Continence Nurses Association with regard to curriculum and content design, and the evaluation methods of online education for thermography-based diabetic foot ulcer prevention using the learning management system. A questionnaire with 50 multiple-choice questions previously validated for content and readability on the knowledge of diabetic foot ulcer prevention using thermography was used for training evaluations.

Results

Of 106 Indonesian wound care specialists evaluated, the paired t-test revealed a significant difference between the before and after training questionnaire scores on knowledge (52.0 ± 10.3, 85.2 ± 10.6, respectively, p < 0.001). Repeated measures analysis of variance revealed interactions between time (before and after training) and gender, and between time and type of certificate (p = 0.046, p = 0.014, respectively).

Conclusions

An asynchronous e-learning program is an effective method to increase wound care specialists' knowledge of diabetic foot ulcer prevention. These findings suggest that online educational interventions are effective and can be tailored to meet the needs of healthcare professionals, thereby ultimately contributing to better patient care outcomes in preventing DFUs.

A Pilot Three Arm Randomised Controlled Trial and Qualitative Study of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Diabetic Foot Ulcer Healing (SOLEFUL): A Study Protocol

The development of effective interventions for diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFU) healing is vital. This protocol outlines a pilot trial and qualitative study investigating ESWT in DFU healing. A pilot three arm placebo controlled double-blinded randomised controlled trial. Participants with a DFU will be randomised to high dose (500 shocks/cm2), low dose (100 shocks/cm2) or sham ESWT, in addition to standard care. The primary outcome will be deliverability of a definitive trial. Secondary outcomes are ulcer healing, quality-of-life and healthcare resource use at 6 months. The target sample size is 90 participants. The study is registered on clinicaltrials.gov, reference: NCT05380544 and has ethical approval (REC reference: 22/WA/0089). The qualitative interview study will recruit participants who complete, drop-out and decline to participate in the pilot trial, and healthcare professionals who deliver DFU care. Maximum variable sampling will be used to recruit participants. Data will be analysed with an inductive exploratory approach using reflexive thematic analysis. The pilot trial will ensure methods used will address the research question in the definitive trial. The qualitative study will explore how patients and clinicians interact with the trial to understand the pilot trial findings.

Comprehensive review on diabetic foot ulcers and neuropathy: Treatment, prevention and management

Diabetic foot (DF) is a major public health concern. As evident from numerous previous studies, supervision of DF ulcer (DFU) is crucial, and a specific quality check-up is needed. Patients should be educated about glycaemic management, DFUs, foot lesions, proper care for injuries, diet, and surgery. Certain reasonably priced treatments, such as hyperbaric oxygen and vacuum-assisted closure therapy, are also available for DFUs, along with modern wound care products and techniques. Nonetheless, DF care (cleaning, applying antimicrobial cream when wounded, and foot reflexology), blood glucose monitoring to control diabetes, and monthly or quarterly examinations in individuals with diabetes are effective in managing DFUs. Between 50% and 80% of DF infections are preventable. Regardless of the intensity of the lesion, it needs to be treated carefully and checked daily during infection. Tissue regeneration can be aided by cleaning, dressing, and application of topical medicines. The choice of shoes is also important because it affects blood circulation and nerve impulses. In general, regular check-ups, monitoring of the patient's condition, measuring blood glucose levels, and providing frequent guidance regarding DFU care are crucial. Finally, this important clinical problem requires involvement of multiple professionals to properly manage it.

The role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers - A literature review

Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) are chronic foot wounds, in a person with diabetes, which are associated with peripheral arterial insufficiency and/or peripheral neuropathy of the lower limb. Recent UK audit figures report that approximately 50-60 % of DFUs remain unhealed after 12 weeks. Previous research has suggested that ischaemia plays a key role in the pathophysiology of many chronic wounds, including DFUs. For this reason, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HOT) has been investigated. The study aimed to investigate 1) Current understanding of the physiology of normal wound healing and the pathological mechanisms that occur in DFUs to interrupt these processes; 2) Effectiveness of current DFU treatment approaches; 3) Effectiveness from clinical trials and meta-analyses for any demonstrated therapeutic benefits of HOT in the treatment of DFUs, 4) Patient selection criteria for HOT, and patients who stand to benefit most from treatment. The review found that wound healing is a complex process, involving many cells and signalling molecules, and it remains incompletely understood. However, current evidence suggests that hyperglycaemia, hypoxia, chronic inflammation (due to infection, immune-cell dysfunction or other causes), peripheral neuropathy, and macro- and micro-vascular dysfunction may all adversely affect DFU healing. The review found that current NICE guidelines do not approve HOT therapy in the UK for DFU's, despite encouraging clinical research findings. HOT shows theoretical promise and has been successfully used in the treatment of individual DFUs for several decades. Despite this, there remains a lack of strong clinical evidence of benefits to encourage HOT's wider use. The review found that there were four important patient selection criteria for HOT treatment, including glycaemic control, possible contraindications and complications associated with treatment, ulcer severity and resistance to first and second line treatments. The review concluded that further high-quality clinical research is needed to improve the evidence base.

Estimated costs of treating two standardised diabetes-related foot ulcers of different severity - A comparison of 7 global regions

AIMS

To determine estimated costs to treat two hypothetical diabetes related foot ulcers of differing severity in different World Health Organization regions.

METHODS

Descriptions of two standardised diabetes related foot ulcers of differing severity were sent to foot teams. Each centre was sent a picture and description of the ulcers, and a series of potential interventions. Respondents were asked to estimate how much each intervention would cost in their centre, and how many times each would be required before the ulcer would heal. These estimated costs were converted to US dollars.

RESULTS

Responses were received from 51 centres. Estimated costs for treating each wound were highest in the North America and Caribbean region. The average estimated cost of treating the milder wound was $2,942, (range $79-$17,758). Relative costs compared to those of North America and the Caribbean ranged from 0.36 to 0.75. The average time needed to cover the estimated costs of treating the wound was 8.6 (0.3-62.3) months' salary. The average estimated cost of treating the more severe wound was $17,403, ($546-$67,178). Relative costs ranged from 0.06 to 0.69. The average time needed to cover the estimated costs of treating the wound was 22.7 (0.2-98.3) months' salary.

CONCLUSIONS

The estimated costs of treating ulcers vary widely across the world.

Factors Influencing the Care and Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Scoping Review

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this scoping review is to explore the experiences of patients' and healthcare practitioners on the factors that influence the care and management of diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFUs).

METHODS

Levac et al's 6-stage framework and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis extension for scoping reviews, guided the review. The SPIDER tool was used to define key elements of the review question. Searches for relevant articles were conducted in electronic databases (PUBMED, CINAHL, AMED, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and PsycINFO), Google Scholar, and hand searches of reference lists.

RESULTS

Eight articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Three themes were identified: Communication and Education about DFUs; Challenges of managing DFUs; and Barriers to treatment and management. The themes are presented as a narrative synthesis.

CONCLUSION

Inadequate knowledge of diabetic foot care by patients and inconsistent communication by healthcare professionals were primary factors affecting the effective management of diabetes-related foot ulcers. Consistent, patient-focused education that is supported by knowledgeable health care professionals should form the foundation of effective diabetic foot ulcer care.

The Effect of Telemedicine Interventions on Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Objective: The meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of telemedicine interventions on patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Approach: The authors conducted a comprehensive search across eight databases. The aim was to identify randomized controlled trials examining the effectiveness of telemedicine for patients with DFU. Methodological qualities of included studies were assessed using Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Intervention. Subsequently, a meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3 to synthesize the findings. Results: Ten studies involving 1,678 patients with DFU were included in the meta-analysis. In comparison to the face-to-face intervention group, telemedicine interventions significantly reduced the amputation rate (risk ratio = 0.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.44-0.92, p = 0.02), decreased costs (mean difference [MD] = -4158.51, 95% CI = -7304.69 to -1012.34, p = 0.01), better controlled fasting blood glucose (MD = -0.89, 95% CI = -1.43 to -0.36, p = 0.001), and achieved superior glycated hemoglobin control (MD = -0.71, 95% CI = -1.01 to -0.41, p < 0.00001). No significant differences were observed between the telemedicine group and the face-to-face group in terms of healing rate, mortality, and healing time. Innovations: Our study suggests that telemedicine is a viable strategy for managing DFU. Conclusions: The meta-analysis indicates that telemedicine interventions have a positive effect on DFU. Nevertheless, more well-designed and high-quality studies are needed to reach a conclusion with greater confidence.

Diabetic foot infections in Internal Medicine services in Spain (2018-2022)

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic foot infections represent a common and serious complication of diabetes mellitus, with a wide range of clinical presentations. Despite their significance, uncertainties persist regarding their management and impact on Internal Medicine services.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from the Registry of Specialized Healthcare Activity (RAE-CMBD) over a five-year period (2018-22). Patients discharged from Internal Medicine with a diagnosis of diabetic foot were included. Demographic, clinical, and activity data were collected, and the cumulative incidence of diabetic foot, in-hospital mortality, need for amputation, and associated costs of hospitalization were analyzed.

RESULTS

15,402 episodes with a diagnosis of diabetic foot were identified, representing 0.41% of Internal Medicine, which implies an age-adjusted incidence rate of between 2 and 3 cases per 1000 admissions in these services. These patients had a high in-hospital mortality rate (16%) and a significant percentage required amputation (8.25%). Advanced age, the presence of comorbidities, and complications during admission were associated with a higher risk of mortality and amputation. The average cost per admission is over ;6000.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetic foot is a pathology with a high impact on Internal Medicine services, both due to the volume of activity and the high mortality and cost generated by this condition.

Barriers and new opportunities in developing effective therapies for diabetic neuropathy: International expert consensus recommendations

BACKGROUND

Diabetic neuropathy (DN) affects up to half of individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Despite evidence that improving metabolic and cardiovascular health can slow its progression, DN remains a significant clinical challenge due to the lack of disease-modifying therapies and effective pain management strategies. This consensus aimed to identify gaps and recommend strategies to address these challenges.

METHOD

A workshop, initiated by Steno Diabetes Centre Copenhagen and the Danish Diabetes and Endocrinology Academy, conducted a gap analysis based on insights from clinical studies, observational cohorts, and clinical practice. Online invitations targeted experienced clinicians, researchers, and drug developers committed to improving DN treatment through innovative clinical trials. Thirty-five participants from six countries reached consensus via a Delphi process on key steps to advance DN therapy.

RESULT

Four critical barriers and needs were addressed: (1) Translating bench research to clinical practice, (2) Enhancing clinical trial design, (3) Improving outcome measures, and (4) Identifying effective treatments for painful DN.

CONCLUSION

Successful interventional trials require robust outcome measures to capture clinically meaningful changes in DN phenotypes, providing the basis for developing effective, disease-modifying treatments.

Assessment of the diabetic foot in inpatients

Diabetic foot disease is a severe complication of diabetes, leading to significant morbidity and lower limb amputations. This review explores the pathophysiology of diabetic foot disease, highlighting the roles of peripheral neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease and immunosuppression in the development of foot ulcers and infections. Key intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors, including long-standing diabetes, poor glycaemic control, inappropriate footwear and trauma are discussed. The importance of comprehensive diabetic foot assessments using diagnostic tools such as the Ipswich Touch Test and Doppler studies is emphasised for early detection and management. Challenges such as delays in referral to specialist care, limited access to multidisciplinary foot teams, and staffing shortages are identified as critical barriers to effective care. The review builds upon extant literature by integrating the most recent evidence, including the 2023 guidelines from the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot. It emphasises practical application, detailed referral pathways and multidisciplinary care strategies, offering updated tools and insights to improve clinical outcomes and address the often overlooked aspects within inpatient services. Future directions encompass advances in imaging, telemedicine and patient education, which may further optimise preventive and therapeutic strategies for diabetic foot disease.

Developing a Smart Sensing Sock to Prevent Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Qualitative Focus Group and Interview Study

BACKGROUND

Diabetic foot ulcers are common and costly. Most cases are preventable, although few interventions exist to reliably support patients in performing self-care. Emerging technologies are showing promise in this domain, although patient and health care provider perspectives are rarely incorporated into digital intervention designs.

OBJECTIVE

This study explored patient and health care provider feedback on a smart sensing sock to detect shear strain and alert the wearer to change their behavior (ie, pause activity and check their feet) and considered how patient experience and attitudes toward self-care are likely to impact uptake and long-term effective engagement with the device to curate guiding principles for successful future intervention development.

METHODS

This qualitative study combined semistructured interviews and a focus group alongside a participant advisory group that was consulted throughout the study. In total, 20 people with diabetic neuropathy (n=16, 80% with history of diabetic foot ulcers) and 2 carers were recruited directly from podiatry clinics as well as via a recruitment network and national health mobile app for one-to-one interviews either in person or via landline or video call. A total of 6 podiatrists were recruited via professional networks for 1 virtual focus group. Participants were asked about their experience of diabetic foot health and for feedback on the proposed device, including how it might work for them in daily life or clinical practice. The data were analyzed thematically.

RESULTS

Three main themes were generated, each raising a barrier to the use of the sock complemented by potential solutions: (1) patient buy-in-challenged by lack of awareness of risk and potentially addressed through using the device to collect and record evidence to enhance clinical messaging; (2) effective engagement-challenged by difficulties accepting and actioning information and requiring simple, specific, and supportive instructions in line with podiatrist advice; and (3) sustained use-challenged by difficulties coping, with the possibility to gain control through an early warning system.

CONCLUSIONS

While both patients and podiatrists were interested in the concept, it would need to be packaged as part of a wider health intervention to overcome barriers to uptake and longer-term effective engagement. This study recommends specific considerations for the framing of feedback messages and instructions as well as provision of support for health care providers to integrate the use of such smart devices into practice. The guiding principles generated by this study can orient future research and development of smart sensing devices for diabetic foot care to help optimize patient engagement and improve health outcomes.

In-hospital costs of diabetic foot infection at a national referral hospital in Jakarta, Indonesia

Aims

To determine the in-hospital costs of patients with diabetic foot problems who either require or do not require amputation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study of 213 subjects with low, moderate and high ulcer grades from January 2019 to December 2022 at a national referral hospital in Jakarta, Indonesia. Data were taken from the medical admissions record unit, electronic health records (EHR), hospital integrated system (HIS) and the foot registry system in the metabolic endocrine division, in relation to diabetic foot infection (DFI) as the primary or secondary diagnosis. We analysed data referring to patient characteristics, in-hospital costs and length of stay (LOS), with further comparison based on amputation status.

Results

The total DFI costs were estimated at IDR 13.833 billion (median IDR 51.225 [min - max; 10.309-507.281) million]). The total costs were estimated at IDR 64.95 ± 50.89 million per patient. All cost variables were driven by intervention costs estimated at IDR 5.176 billion (median IDR 19.676 [min - max; 1.245-136.348) million per patient). Daily costs were IDR 3.281 million per patient per day. The total treatment costs for amputation and non-amputation were IDR 6.99 billion (median IDR 61.398 (18.785-268.768) million) and IDR 6.842 billion (median IDR 45.016 (10.309-507.282) million, respectively. The average LOS was 19.79 ± 10.77 days per DFI episode, which did not differ significantly between the amputation and non-amputation groups (p > 0.176) but not for total costs (p < 0.003). DFI is associated with high costs and long-term hospital stays.

Conclusions

Our study provides evidence on in-patient hospital costs by capturing the real costs of DFI treatment, with the total treatment costs for amputation being higher than for non-amputation. This information might benefit for health practitioners in clinical practice improvements and policy adjustments, including INA-CBGs tariff for DFI patients.

Application of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) to describe the microbial characteristics of diabetic foot ulcers at a tertiary medical center in South China

BACKGROUND

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are characterized by dynamic wound microbiome, the timely and accurate identification of pathogens in the clinic is required to initiate precise and individualized treatment. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) has been a useful supplement to routine culture method for the etiological diagnosis of DFUs. In this study, we utilized a routine culture method and mNGS to analyze the same DFU wound samples and the results were compared.

METHODS

Forty samples from patients with DFUs at a tertiary medical center in South China were collected, the microorganisms were identified with mNGS and routine culture method simultaneously.

RESULTS

The results showed that the positive detection rate of microorganisms in DFUs with mNGS was much higher (95% vs. 60%). Thirteen strains of microorganisms were detected with routine culture method, and seventy-seven strains were detected with mNGS. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common microorganism detected with culture method, while Enterococcus faecalis was the most common microorganism detected with mNGS. The false negative rate of the culture method was 35%, that was, 14 samples with negative results with culture method were found to be positive with mNGS.

CONCLUSION

The mNGS method had a higher positive detection rate and identified a broader spectrum of microorganisms in DFUs, thus, mNGS provided a more comprehensive understanding of the microbiome of DFUs to facilitate the development of timely and optimal treatment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the Ethical Review Committee of the Fujian Medical University Union Hospital (approval number 2021KY054).

Outcome evaluation and cost-effectiveness analysis for an integrated multidisciplinary diabetic limb salvage program: a combined observational and simulation study

INTRODUCTION

To compare the clinical outcomes and healthcare utilization of patients enrolled in the multidisciplinary Diabetic Foot in Primary and Tertiary (DEFINITE) Care program with a matched historical cohort and estimate the program's long-term cost-effectiveness using simulation.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study consisted of two components: a 1-year observational outcome evaluation and a long-term simulation-based cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA). We conducted an observational study to analyze 2798 patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) enrolled in the program between June 2020 and June 2021 (DEFINITE Care group) and 5462 patients with DFUs from June 2016 to December 2017 as historical controls. One-to-one propensity score matching (PSM) with replacement was conducted to estimate the treatment effect of the program on clinical outcomes and healthcare utilization over 1 year. For the simulation component, a long-term CEA was performed using a Markov state transition model on a simulated cohort of 10 000 patients with DFUs over a 20-year period, assessing transitions between health states, including minor and major amputations and death. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated for the DEFINITE Care program relative to routine care.

RESULTS

The estimation of average treatment effects based on propensity scores showed that the DEFINITE Care group exhibited a 9% lower mortality, 5% higher lower extremity amputation (LEA)-free survival, yet a 5% higher minor LEA rate compared with the matched historical controls. Additionally, they experienced fewer inpatient admissions (0.98 fewer episodes) and shorter hospital stays (5.5 fewer days) within 1 year (p-value <0.001). The ICER was US$22 707 (SE: 430) per quality-adjusted life year gained, indicating long-term cost-effectiveness. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis supported these findings.

CONCLUSIONS

The integrated multidisciplinary DEFINITE Care program improved LEA-free survival, reduced inpatient admissions and length of stay within 1 year and demonstrated long-term cost-effectiveness managing DFUs.

Potentilla fulgens root extract rich in polyphenols ameliorate diabetic foot ulcers in wistar rats via regulating oxidative stress and connective tissue markers

BACKGROUND

Potentilla fulgens (Wall.) ex Hook. (Rosaceae), commonly known as 'Bajradanti' is native to the lower Himalayan regions inclusive of the North-East India. Traditionally, the plant is used to treat chronic ailments like diabetes and diverse wounds, including gastric and mouth ulcers, and injuries from tiger bites.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to assess the efficacy of P. fulgens root extract rich in polyphenolics in healing diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) in rats.

METHODS

DFU was induced in streptozotocin-nicotinamide diabetic rat feet by open excision wound model. Rats were divided into eight groups (n = 6/group): normal, negative control, plain gel (placebo) control, 1% silver sulfadiazine, and P. fulgens treated with topical ethyl acetate (EAPF, 5% and 10%) and methanol extract (MEPF, 5% and 10%). The morphological, histological and various biochemical parameters associated with the wound healing process such as connective tissue repair and oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated.

RESULTS

Topical application of EAPF 10% and MEPF 10% over 21 days significantly (p < 0.05) reduced ulcer area in DFU rats compared to negative control. Furthermore, the extracts treated group notably (p < 0.05) increased levels of connective tissue biomarkers (total protein, hydroxyproline, hexosamine, and hexuronic acid) and antioxidant components (SOD and GSH), while significantly (p < 0.05) decreasing levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in foot tissue homogenate. Histological analysis of rats treated with the extracts revealed significant evidence of tissue repair, characterised by enhanced epithelial and collagen formation, along with decreased polymorphonuclear infiltration and edema.

CONCLUSION

In summary, treatment with EAPF 10% significantly improved foot ulcers by modulating oxidative stress and connective tissue biomarkers in DFU animals.

The global and regional burden of diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is length-dependent peripheral nerve damage arising as a complication of type 1 or type 2 diabetes in up to 50% of patients. DPN poses a substantial burden on patients, who can experience impaired gait and loss of balance, predisposing them to falls and fractures, and neuropathic pain, which is frequently difficult to treat and reduces quality of life. Advanced DPN can lead to diabetic foot ulcers and non-healing wounds that often necessitate lower-limb amputation. From a socioeconomic perspective, DPN increases both direct health-care costs and indirect costs from loss of productivity owing to neuropathy-related disability. In this Review, we highlight the importance of understanding country-specific and region-specific variations in DPN prevalence to inform public health policy and allocate resources appropriately. We also explore how identification of DPN risk factors can guide treatment and prevention strategies and aid the development of health-care infrastructure for populations at risk. We review evidence that metabolic factors beyond hyperglycaemia contribute to DPN development, necessitating a shift from pure glycaemic control to multi-targeted metabolic control, including weight loss and improvements in lipid profiles.

Deap-seated infection and nonunion following internal fixation for Charcot foot deformity correction. A proportional meta-analysis of level 4 evidence

BACKGROUND

Given the paucity of literature on the management of infected metalwork and nonunion in neuropathic diabetic patients, a meta-analysis was designed to investigate the two major complications following Charcot reconstruction performed by means of internal fixation methods.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Scopus and CENTRAL until the 17th of May 2022 for completed studies investigating outcomes following midfoot and/or hindfoot and/or ankle diabetic Charcot reconstruction. For a paper to qualify for inclusion, an internal fixation element should have been considered. Random effects meta-analysis of proportion was performed to calculate the rate of post-operative deep-seated infections with the associated amputation rate and nonunions by using Open Meta-analyst software. Sub-analysis linked to anatomical location of reconstruction was performed and the quality of the included studies was appraised using the Moga tool.

RESULTS

Thirty studies with 492 eligible reconstructions were considered. Of those, deep-seated infections were diagnosed in 46 cases (Estimated proportion was 6.7%, 95% CI [4.2%-9.2%]). Debridement and antibiotic administration with or without metalwork removal were considered in the majority of the participants with successful clinical outcomes. Amputation was performed in 15 patients due to unmanageable post-operative infection and nonunion was reported in 17 studies (Estimated rates were 36.6%, 95% CI [18.4%-56.3%]; and 11.9%, 95%CI [6.6%-18.1%]; respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Meta-analysis showed that although the overall risk of infection development is less than 10%, just below one third of the infected cases undergo late amputation. Moreover, internal fixation reconstructions carry a nonunion risk of just above 10%.

Lactams Exhibit Potent Antifungal Activity Against Monospecies and Multispecies Interkingdom Biofilms on a Novel Hydrogel Skin Model

Infections of intact and damaged skin barriers and keratin are frequently associated with complex biofilm communities containing bacteria and fungi, yet there are limited options for successful management. This study intended to focus on the utility of some novel proprietary lactam molecules, quorum sensing (QS)-derived halogenated furanones, which act to block the QS pathway, against key fungal pathogens of the skin (Candida albicans, Malassezia furfur and Microsporum gypseum). Moreover, we aimed to assess how these actives performed against complex interkingdom biofilms in a clinically relevant model. Two lactam derivatives were tested against a panel of important fungal pathogens and then quantitatively assessed against simple and increasingly complex interkingdom biofilm models on polystyrene coverslips and a novel keratin hydrogel system. The lactams were shown to be effective against a wide range of fungal species in the planktonic and biofilm forms, with no ability to regrow. The fungal component of the multispecies biofilm models was significantly reduced with lactam treatment. Lactam treatment was also comparably effective compared to the non-prescription topical antifungal 'Lamisil' against C. albicans early and late biofilms. This study highlights the effectiveness of lactams as a novel antimicrobial for the management of the polymicrobial and interkingdom multispecies biofilms.

Unravelling the cardio-renal-metabolic-foot connection in people with diabetes-related foot ulceration: a narrative review

Diabetes-related foot ulceration (DFU), a serious but preventable complication of diabetes, is a leading cause of hospitalisation, lower extremity amputation and disability worldwide. People with DFU have a greater burden of cardiovascular risk factors, heart failure and chronic kidney disease, resulting in over two-fold higher risk of cardiovascular death compared with people with diabetes without DFU. Here, we propose a "cardio-renal-metabolic-foot" connection in people with diabetes based on shared pathophysiological mechanisms linking DFU with cardiovascular and renal disease. Whilst these mechanistic links remain to be fully elucidated, systemic inflammation and infection in the context of DFU are postulated as key mediators in the development, and progression of, cardiovascular and renal disease. However, cardiovascular and renal disease are also implicated in the pathogenesis of DFU, highlighting the multi-directional interplay between conditions. The impact of screening, prevention, and early management of cardiovascular complications associated with DFU requires further research. Multi-modality cardiac imaging could play a role in unravelling disease mechanisms leading to novel therapeutic strategies, as well as facilitating personalised risk assessment and management. Recent clinical trials have transformed the therapeutic landscape for people with type 2 diabetes, by demonstrating that sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists improve cardiovascular and renal outcomes. Although dedicated research in people with DFU is warranted, these therapies could target multiple facets of the "cardio-renal-metabolic-foot" connection. The holistic, person-centred approach to managing DFU should incorporate new multidisciplinary models of care focusing on the prevention and management of cardiovascular and kidney disease.

Mortality rates in people presenting with a new diabetes-related foot ulcer: a cohort study with implications for management

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

People with diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFUs) have high mortality rates. This analysis assesses the impact of selected risk factors on short-term mortality using a population registered in the National Diabetes Foot Care Audit (NDFA).

METHODS

Mortality rates at 12, 26 and 52 weeks was assessed in people with a new DFU registered by a specialist diabetes footcare service in the NDFA in England and Wales between April 2017 and March 2022. Poisson regression models were created to explore risk factors for mortality.

RESULTS

In 71,000 people registered with a new DFU, mortality rates at 12, 26 and 52 weeks was 4.2%, 8.2% and 14.4%, respectively. At 26 weeks, higher mortality rates was associated with older age (rate ratio 2.15; 95% CI 2.03, 2.28, for age ≥80 years vs age 65-79 years), certain ulcer characteristics (area ≥1 cm2 [1.50; 95% CI 1.42, 1.59], deep ulcers [1.26; 95% CI 1.18, 1.35] or hindfoot location [1.53; 95% CI 1.44, 1.62]) and recorded evidence of ischaemia in the lower limb (1.78; 95% CI 1.69, 1.88) and various comorbidities (heart failure [2.13; 95% CI 2.00, 2.26], myocardial infarction [1.45; 95% CI 1.29, 1.63], stroke [1.37; 95% CI 1.22, 1.53], renal replacement therapy [2.34; 95% CI 2.09, 2.61] and chronic kidney disease stage 3 or greater [1.20; 95% CI 1.12, 1.29]). The 26-week mortality rate exceeded 25% for 7.3% of all individuals, rising to 11.5% of those aged 65 years and older, and 22.1% of those aged 80 years and over.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Short-term mortality rates in people with a DFU is high. Teams managing people with DFUs should consider modifying the burdensome interventions and care required to heal such ulcers so maximising the quality of residual life, rather than focusing exclusively on healing.

The correlation between Diabetes and age-related degeneration and the static and dynamic 3D mechanical distribution of different plantar regions

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the distribution of plantar pressure and anterior-posterior (AP) or medial-lateral (ML) shear forces in healthy younger (HY) people, healthy older (HO) people, and diabetic patients, both in static standing and during gait.

Materials and methods

A total of 20 HY adults, 16 HO adults and 15 diabetic patients were included. The static mechanical distribution measurements included: static horizontal, AP slope plane, and left/right slope standing. Data collected during the gait cycle encompassed the plantar pressure-time integral (PTI), peak pressure (PP), AP/ML shear force-time integral (AP-STI/ML-STI), and AP/ML peak shear force (AP-PS/ML-PS). The plantar surface was segmented into regions including hallux (HL), 2nd~5th toes (T2-5), 1st metatarsal head (M1), 2nd~3rd metatarsal heads (M2-3), 4th~5th metatarsal heads (M4-5), lateral foot arch (LA), and heel regions.

Results

The HO group exhibited increased static pressure in M2-3 and heel regions and AP shear force in the entire plantar and M1 regions, in comparison to the HY group. The diabetes group showed increased static pressure in entire plantar, M1, M2-3 and heel regions and AP shear force in the entire plantar, T2-5, M1, M2-3 and heel regions. During gait, the HO group exhibited increased PTI in the whole plantar, T2-5, M2-3, and M4-5 regions, while the diabetes group showed increased PTI in the whole plantar, M1 and M2-3 regions. The HO group showed increased PP in the whole plantar, M1 and heel regions, while decreased in the M2-3 region. The diabetes group showed increased PP in the whole plantar, T2-5, M2-3, M4-5 and heel regions. The HO group showed increased AP-STI in the T2-5, M1, and M2-3 regions, while the diabetes group showed increased AP-STI in the whole plantar, M2-3 and heel regions.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that both static and dynamic plantar pressures and shear forces are significantly greater in diabetic patients and HO individuals compared to HY adults. The most substantial increases was occurred under the M2-3 and heel regions.

Phage Therapy Against Antibiotic-Resistant and Multidrug-Resistant Infections Involving Nonhealing Wounds and Prosthetic Joint Infections Associated With Biofilms: A Mini-Review

Chronic wounds and prosthetic joint infections are difficult to treat and are associated with a high burden of disease and economic cost. The rise of antibiotic resistance and the understanding of biofilm formation has inflamed an already challenging situation. Bacteriophage therapy has been used throughout the last century to treat bacterial infections. However, in the last 10 years, there has been a resurgence in phage therapy as a novel innovative treatment for nonhealing wounds. This mini systemic review assesses relevant clinical studies, case series and trials over 5 years associated with safety, treatment and success rates of phage therapy concerning nonhealing and prosthetic joint infections. A search of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane and Clinical Trials.gov databases resulted in 3151 studies, 27 met the criteria, and a total of 152 bacterial infections were treated from 130 individuals. Most common pathogen isolated in wounds was P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus was mostly associated with prosthetic joint infections. Treatment modalities differed across studies, adverse effects were limited, and success rate was deemed to be 91%.

Outcomes of Flap Reconstruction for Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Studies

BACKGROUND

People with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are at risk of major amputation, which is associated with a high mortality rate (exceeding 50% at 5 years) and reduced quality of life. The authors hypothesized that flap reconstruction of DFUs improves patient outcomes in comparison with standard treatment modalities, including major amputation.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and gray literature were searched on February 9, 2022. Comparative and single-arm studies reporting outcomes of DFUs treated with local, regional, or free flaps that included function, limb loss, mortality rates, and flap failure rates were included. Risk of bias was assessed, and meta-analysis of proportions was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 3878 records were retrieved, of which 45 met the inclusion criteria, including the records of 1681 patients who underwent flap reconstruction of DFUs. Free flaps were most commonly performed ( n = 1257 [72%]). Only one study used a verified functional outcome measure. At 12 months, the mortality rate was 6.35% (95% CI, 3.89% to 10.20%), the limb loss rate was 11.39% (95% CI, 7.02% to 17.96%), and the free flap failure rate was 9.95% (95% CI, 8.19% to 12.05%). All studies were at high risk of bias. A comparative meta-analysis of interventions was not performed because of study method and outcome heterogeneity.

CONCLUSIONS

There is short-term evidence that flap reconstruction (including microsurgical transfer) has low mortality, limb loss, and flap failure rates. However, there are limited high-quality comparative studies, and uncertainty remains regarding the outcome of DFU flap reconstruction in comparison to other treatments.

Effectiveness of screening for foot complications in people with diabetes - A systematic review

BACKGROUND

A quarter of people with diabetes develop foot ulcer in their lifetime and are six times more likely to require a major lower limb amputation compared to the general population. Risk stratification tools can reliably identify those at the highest risk of ulceration, but it remains unclear if screening for foot complications can prevent limb loss in people with diabetes.

AIMS

The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether population-based foot screening in people with diabetes reduces lower limb complications as assessed by development of foot ulceration, minor and major lower limb amputations, hospitalisation, or death.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare and CINAHL databases were searched to identify randomised and non-randomised controlled trials and observational studies (cohort, case-control and cross-sectional surveys). The screening process, study quality assessment and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers.

RESULTS

Following abstract screening and assessment for eligibility, five out of 10,771 identified studies were included in the analysis. Of these studies, one demonstrated 24 % reduction in development of new ulceration following introduction of screening. Major amputations decreased by between 17 and 96 % in three studies. Hospitalisation rates were contradictory, with one study showing doubling in hospital admissions and another one reduction by 33 %. One study demonstrated no impact of screening on minor or major amputation rates. None of the studies addressed the effect of foot screening on all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The number and quality of studies to support population-based foot screening to prevent lower limb complications in people with diabetes is low. Current evidence suggests variable impact of screening on important clinical outcomes.

Development of a Core Outcome Set for Studies Assessing Interventions for Diabetes-Related Foot Ulceration

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes affects 537 million people globally, with 34% expected to develop foot ulceration in their lifetime. Diabetes-related foot ulceration causes strain on health care systems worldwide, necessitating provision of high-quality evidence to guide their management. Given heterogeneity of reported outcomes, a core outcome set (COS) was developed to standardize outcome measures in studies assessing treatments for diabetes-related foot ulceration.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The COS was developed using Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) methodology. A systematic review and patient interviews generated a long list of outcomes that were rated by patients and experts using a nine-point Likert scale (from 1 [not important] to 9 [critical]) in the first round of the Delphi survey. Based on predefined criteria, outcomes without consensus were reprioritized in a second Delphi round. Critical outcomes and those without consensus after two Delphi rounds were discussed in the consensus meeting where the COS was ratified.

RESULTS

The systematic review and patient interviews generated 103 candidate outcomes. The two consecutive Delphi rounds were completed by 336 and 176 respondents, resulting in an overall second round response rate of 52%. Of 37 outcomes discussed in the consensus meeting (22 critical and 15 without consensus after the second round), 8 formed the COS: wound healing, time to healing, new/recurrent ulceration, infection, major amputation, minor amputation, health-related quality of life, and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed COS for studies assessing treatments for diabetes-related foot ulceration was developed using COMET methodology. Its adoption by the research community will facilitate assessment of comparative effectiveness of current and evolving interventions.

Sheffield One-Stop Service: A potential model to improve the screening uptake of diabetic peripheral neuropathy and other microvascular complications of diabetes

The world is experiencing an enormous rise in the prevalence of diabetes, which is associated with massive healthcare costs that threaten to overwhelm many healthcare systems. Most of the diabetes expenditure is attributed to the management of chronic diabetes complications, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN)/diabetic foot complications, chronic kidney disease, sight-threatening retinopathy and cardiovascular diseases. Of these complications, the most overlooked is DPN. Most consultations around the world do not even involve taking off shoes and socks to carry out a foot examination, and even when carried out, the peripheral neurological examination using the 10-g monofilament diagnoses DPN when it is already at an advanced stage. Thus, all too often diabetes complications are diagnosed late, resulting in devastating outcomes, particularly in low- to middle-income countries. There is, therefore, an urgent need to instigate new strategies to improve microvascular screening uptake using a holistic protocol for annual diabetes health checks outside the busy diabetes clinic. One such approach, the Sheffield One-Stop Microvascular Screening Service, which involves modern point of care devices to diagnose DPN, has been shown to be feasible and effective, resulting in high uptake and early management of diabetes complications. This article outlines the advantages of this One-Stop Microvascular Screening Service and a plan to trial an adapted version of this service to a resource-limited country, the Philippines. If successful, this model has the potential for implementation in other countries around the world.

The Association of HbA1c Variability with 12 Week and 12 Month Outcomes on Diabetes Related Foot Ulcer Healing

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to determine the relationship between HbA1c variability and foot ulcer healing at 12 weeks and 12 months.

METHODS

Using National Diabetic Foot Care Audit (NDFA) and hospital records, demographics, baseline ulcer characteristics and healing outcomes for subjects presenting with a foot ulcer between 2017-2022 were collected at 12 weeks and 12 months. Subjects had diabetes duration > 3 years and ≥ 3 HbA1c recordings in the 5 years prior to presentation.

RESULTS

At 12 weeks, factors associated with an active ulcer were presence on hind foot (adjusted odds ratios) (2.1 [95% CI 1.3-3.7]), ischaemia (2.1 [95% CI:1.4-3.2]), area > 1 cm2 (2.7 [95% CI:1.7-4.2]) and diabetes duration > 24 years vs 3-10 (AOR 2.0 [95% CI 1.2-3.5]). After adjustment, HbA1c variability 6-10 mmol/mol and > 14.5 mmol/mol had AOR of 1.76 (95% CI 1.1-2.8; p = 0.0192) and 1.5 (95% CI 0.9-2.6; p = 0.1148) of an active ulcer at 12 weeks vs variability < 6 mmol/mol. At 12 months, ischaemia (AOR 2.4 [95% CI 1.5-3.8]) and diabetes duration > 24 years vs 3-10 years (AOR 3.3 [95% CI 1.7-6.4] were significant factors. HbA1c variability was not significant at 12 months.

CONCLUSION

In keeping with the national NDFA data, in our cohort ulcer characteristics, but not HbA1c variability, were the key factors associated with ulcer healing at 12 weeks and 12 months.

In-shoe plantar shear stress sensor design, calibration and evaluation for the diabetic foot

Plantar shear stress may have an important role in the formation of a Diabetic Foot Ulcer, but its measurement is regarded as challenging and has limited research. This paper highlights the importance of anatomical specific shear sensor calibration and presents a feasibility study of a novel shear sensing system which has measured in-shoe shear stress from gait activity on both healthy and diabetic subjects. The sensing insole was based on a strain gauge array embedded in a silicone insole backed with a commercial normal pressure sensor. Sensor calibration factors were investigated using a custom mechanical test rig with indenter to exert both normal and shear forces. Indenter size and location were varied to investigate the importance of both loading area and position on measurement accuracy. The sensing insole, coupled with the calibration procedure, was tested one participant with diabetes and one healthy participant during two sessions of 15 minutes of treadmill walking. Calibration with different indenter areas (from 78.5 mm2 to 707 mm2) and different positions (up to 40 mm from sensor centre) showed variation in measurements of up to 80% and 90% respectively. Shear sensing results demonstrated high repeatability (>97%) and good accuracy (mean absolute error < ±18 kPa) in bench top mechanical tests and less than 21% variability within walking of 15-minutes duration. The results indicate the importance of mechanical coupling between embedded shear sensors and insole materials. It also highlights the importance of using an appropriate calibration method to ensure accurate shear stress measurement. The novel shear stress measurement system presented in this paper, demonstrates a viable method to measure accurate and repeatable in-shoe shear stress using the calibration procedure described. The validation and calibration methods outlined in this paper could be utilised as a standardised approach for the research community to develop and validate similar measurement technologies.

A cross sectional pilot study utilising STrain Analysis and Mapping of the Plantar Surface (STAMPS) to measure plantar load characteristics within a healthy population

BACKGROUND

No in-shoe systems, measuring both components of plantar load (plantar pressure and shear stress) are available for use in patients with diabetes. The STAMPS (STrain Analysis and Mapping of the Plantar Surface) system utilises digital image correlation (DIC) to determine the strain sustained by a deformable insole, providing a more complete understanding of plantar shear load at the foot-surface interface.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

What is the normal range and pattern of strain at the foot-surface interface within a healthy population as measured by the STAMPS system? Is STAMPS a valid tool to measure the effects of plantar load?

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of healthy participants was undertaken. Healthy adults without foot pathology or diabetes were included. Participants walked 20 steps with the STAMPS insole in a standardised shoe. Participants also walked 10 m with the Novel Pedar® plantar pressure measurement insole within the standardised shoe. Both measurements were repeated three times. Outcomes of interest were global and regional values for peak resultant strain (SMAG) and peak plantar pressure (PPP).

RESULTS

In 18 participants, median peak SMAG and PPP were 35.01 % and 410.6kPa respectively. The regions of the hallux and heel sustained the highest SMAG (29.31 % (IQR 24.56-31.39) and 20.50 % (IQR 15.59-24.12) respectively) and PPP (344.8kPa (IQR 268.3 - 452.5) and 279.3kPa (IQR 231.3-302.1) respectively). SMAG was moderately correlated with PPP (r= 0.65, p < 0.001). Peak SMAG was located at the hallux in 55.6 % of participants, at the 1st metatarsal head (MTH) in 16.7 %, the heel in 16.7 %, toes 3-5 in 11.1 % and the MTH2 in 5.6 %.

SIGNIFICANCE

The results demonstrate the STAMPS system is a valid tool to measure plantar strain. Further studies are required to investigate the effects of elevated strain and the relationship with diabetic foot ulcer formation.

The effect of bariatric surgery on diabetes related foot complications among patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery leads to considerable weight loss and improved glycaemic control and seems to have a favourable impact on diabetes related foot complications (DFC).

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of bariatric surgery on diabetes related foot complications in patients with type 2 diabetes and determine whether DFC symptoms are improved after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The primary outcome was the presence of DFC after bariatric surgery. The secondary outcome was the improvement of DFC after bariatric surgery among patients who already had DFC before surgery.

RESULTS

There were nine studies showing the presence of DFC post bariatric surgery and six detailing the changes in DFC post bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery was not associated with a lower risk of developing or worsening DFC compared to conventional medical treatment based on 4 randomised control trials (IR 0.87, 95 % CI, 0.26, 2.98), while from observational studies was associated with 51 % lower risk of DFC (IR 0.49, 95 % CI, 0.31, 0.77). Bariatric surgery was associated with improvement in diabetic neuropathy assessment parameters including toe tuning fork score, self-reported neuropathy symptoms, neuropathy symptom score, and neuropathy symptom profile.

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery led to a greater reduction in developing or worsening DFC among patients with type 2 diabetes compared to medical treatment in observational studies, but not among RCTs. Bariatric surgery was associated with improvements in diabetic neuropathy related assessment parameters and symptoms. Bariatric surgery could be a promising treatment for patients with type 2 diabetes who are at high risk of DFC.

Prevalence and incidence of peripheral neuropathy, peripheral artery disease, foot disease, and lower extremity amputation in people with diabetes in Ireland; a systematic review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Internationally, the prevalence of diabetes is increasing, and with this comes an increase in diabetes related complications. Diabetic foot disease is the most common lower extremity complication in people with diabetes causing 2% of the global disease burden. It, is associated with major morbidity, mortality, and costs to health services. Despite this burden, the incidence and prevalence of diabetic foot disease is unknown in Ireland. This paper presents a protocol for a systematic review to examine the incidence and prevalence of diabetic foot disease in the Irish population.

METHODS

A systematic review will be performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Pubmed, EMBASE, and Lenus, the Irish Health Research repository, will be searched for publications in any language and without restrictions to date. Title, abstract, and full text screening will be carried out independently by two investigators. Publications reporting on the incidence or prevalence of peripheral neuropathy, peripheral artery disease, ulceration, or amputation in people with diabetes in Ireland, from a defined geographical catchment area of Ireland, will be included. Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal tool will be used to assess included studies methodological quality. Results will be reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

CONCLUSION

The results of this systematic review can be used to inform appropriate stakeholders on the incidence and prevalence of diabetic foot disease in Irish populations, enabling decision making around appropriate use of resources to help prevent, and improve management of this disease.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

CRD42023472904.

Prevalence and incidence of peripheral neuropathy, peripheral artery disease, foot disease, and lower extremity amputation in people with diabetes in Ireland; a systematic review protocol

Introduction

Internationally, the prevalence of diabetes is increasing, and with this comes an increase in diabetes related complications. Diabetic foot disease is the most common lower extremity complication in people with diabetes causing 2% of the global disease burden. It, is associated with major morbidity, mortality, and costs to health services. Despite this burden, the incidence and prevalence of diabetic foot disease is unknown in Ireland. This paper presents a protocol for a systematic review to examine the incidence and prevalence of diabetic foot disease in the Irish population.

Methods

A systematic review will be performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Pubmed, EMBASE, and Lenus, the Irish Health Research repository, will be searched for publications in any language and without restrictions to date. Title, abstract, and full text screening will be carried out independently by two investigators. Publications reporting on the incidence or prevalence of peripheral neuropathy, peripheral artery disease, ulceration, or amputation in people with diabetes in Ireland, from a defined geographical catchment area of Ireland, will be included. Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal tool will be used to assess included studies methodological quality. Results will be reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Conclusion

The results of this systematic review can be used to inform appropriate stakeholders on the incidence and prevalence of diabetic foot disease in Irish populations, enabling decision making around appropriate use of resources to help prevent, and improve management of this disease.

Systematic review registration

CRD42023472904.

Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy: a review of key concepts and an evidence-based surgical management algorithm

Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy (CNO), mainly as a result of diabetic neuropathy, is a complex problem which carries significant morbidity, and is an increasing burden on healthcare as demographics change globally. A multi-disciplinary team (MDT) is necessary to treat the multiple facets of this disease. The multifactorial and non-homogenous nature of this condition and its management, has prevented the development of comprehensive guidelines based on level 1 evidence. Although there is a trend to surgically treat these patients in tertiary centres, the increasing prevalence of CNO necessitates the capability of all units to manage this condition to an extent locally. This article conducted a thorough literature search of Pubmed and Embase from 2003 to 2023 including the following search terms; "Charcot" "neuroarthropathy" "diabetic foot" "management" "surgery" "treatment" "reconstruction". The results of this review have been summarised and synthesised into an evidence-based algorithm to aid in the surgical decision-making process, and improve the understanding of surgical management by the whole MDT.

Foot, ankle, and leg problems in Australian primary care: consultation patterns, management practices, and costs

OBJECTIVE

To explore consultation patterns, management practices, and costs of foot, ankle, and leg problems in Australian primary care.

STUDY DESIGN

We analyzed data from the Bettering the Evaluation and Care of Health program, April 2000 to March 2016. Foot, ankle, and leg problems were identified using the International Classification of Primary Care, Version 2 PLUS terminology. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics examining general practitioner (GP) and patient characteristics associated with a foot, ankle, or leg problem being managed. Cost to government was estimated by extracting fees for GP consultations, diagnostic imaging, and pathology services from the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) database. Costs for prescription-only medicines were extracted from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Schedule and for nonprescribed medications, large banner discount pharmacy prices were used.

RESULTS

GPs recorded 1,568,100 patient encounters, at which 50,877 foot, ankle, or leg problems were managed at a rate of 3.24 (95% confidence intervals [CIs] 3.21-3.28) per 100 encounters. The management rate of foot, ankle, or leg problems was higher for certain patient characteristics (older, having a health care card, socioeconomically disadvantaged, non-Indigenous, and being English speaking) and GP characteristics (male sex, older age, and Australian graduate). The most frequently used management practice was the use of medications. The average cost (Australian dollars) per encounter was A$52, with the total annual cost estimated at A$256m.

CONCLUSIONS

Foot, ankle, and leg problems are frequently managed by GPs, and the costs associated with their management represent a substantial economic impact in Australian primary care.

Effectiveness of continuous home wound care on patients with diabetic foot ulcers

AIMS

To explore the effectiveness of continuous home wound care on patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).

DESIGN

A non-randomized parallel controlled non-inferiority trial.

METHODS

Patients with Wagner grade I-III DFUs hospitalized in two distant campuses of the same hospital were included. All patients received infection treatment and wound bed preparation during hospitalization; after discharge, patients in one of the campuses received routine outpatient wound care, and those treated in the other received continuous home wound care. The per-protocol analysis was performed to compare ulcer healing indicators, knowledge, health belief, self-management behaviour and medical expenses of the two groups.

RESULTS

Between October 2021 and December 2022, 116 patients were enrolled in the study; 107 completed. The home care was not inferior in terms of ulcer healing rate and demonstrated significant enhancements in the understanding of warning signs, health belief and self-management behaviour. Additionally, the home care saved 220.38 yuan (24.32 UK pounds) in direct medical expenses for each additional one square centimetre of ulcer healing.

CONCLUSION

The continuous home wound care enhanced self-management behaviour of the patients and saved their medical expenses while not compromising ulcer healing.

IMPACT

This is to date the first study to conduct continuous home wound care practice for patients with DFUs and confirmed its safety and non-inferiority in ulcer healing, and supported its superiority in improving self-management behaviour and saving medical expenses.

REPORTING METHOD

We have adhered to the transparent reporting of evaluations with nonrandomized designs statements and the corresponding checklist was followed.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

The patients and their primary caregivers were involved in intervention design, we received input from them about the factors that facilitate and hinder patient self-management behaviours to develop intervention strategies.

Advancements in diabetic foot insoles: a comprehensive review of design, manufacturing, and performance evaluation

The escalating prevalence of diabetes has accentuated the significance of addressing the associated diabetic foot problem as a major public health concern. Effectively offloading plantar pressure stands out as a crucial factor in preventing diabetic foot complications. This review comprehensively examines the design, manufacturing, and evaluation strategies employed in the development of diabetic foot insoles. Furthermore, it offers innovative insights and guidance for enhancing their performance and facilitating clinical applications. Insoles designed with total contact customization, utilizing softer and highly absorbent materials, as well as incorporating elliptical porous structures or triply periodic minimal surface structures, prove to be more adept at preventing diabetic foot complications. Fused Deposition Modeling is commonly employed for manufacturing; however, due to limitations in printing complex structures, Selective Laser Sintering is recommended for intricate insole designs. Preceding clinical implementation, in silico and in vitro testing methodologies play a crucial role in thoroughly evaluating the pressure-offloading efficacy of these insoles. Future research directions include advancing inverse design through machine learning, exploring topology optimization for lightweight solutions, integrating flexible sensor configurations, and innovating new skin-like materials tailored for diabetic foot insoles. These endeavors aim to further propel the development and effectiveness of diabetic foot management strategies. Future research avenues should explore inverse design methodologies based on machine learning, topology optimization for lightweight structures, the integration of flexible sensors, and the development of novel skin-like materials specifically tailored for diabetic foot insoles. Advancements in these areas hold promise for further enhancing the effectiveness and applicability of diabetic foot prevention measures.

Teleconsulting in wound care: Connecting the primary care to the wound specialist reduces unnecessary referrals

In the Netherlands the primary care (General Practitioner or homecare nurse) encounter a variety of wounds ranging from traumatic to diabetic foot ulcers. According to a recent study 82.4% of the patients with a wound can be treated in a primary setting with the GP as medical supervisor. The remaining 17.6% of patients need more extensive care including advice by a specialised doctor, diagnosis and treatment. Prompt analyses and treatment of underlying causes by specialised doctors in a multidisciplinary setting is necessary for treating patients with complicated wound. This article describes the impact of Electronic Health Consultation on all wounds treated in the primary care. And describes the effect on the duration until referral to the hospital and the influence on the amount of unnecessary referrals to the hospital. All data was collected prospectively from June 2020 until October 2021. The study involved a process where primary care could seek advice from a Wound Physician at the Alrijne Wound Centre through a specialised Electronic Health Consultation. A total of 118 patients were analysed. 41/118 (34.7%) patients required a physical consultation with analysis and treatment in the hospital, after teleconsultation. The remaining 77/118 (65.3%) could be treated in primary care after Electronic Health Consultation. The mean duration of wound existence until Electronic Health Consultation was 39.3 days (range 5-271, SD: 38.5). 3/41 (7.3%) of the referrals were unnecessary. Electronic Health Consultation serves as a valuable and efficient tool for enhancing wound care, ultimately contributing to improved patient management and resource allocation within the healthcare system. This article describes the impact of Electronic Health Consultation on all wounds treated in the primary care and the influence on the duration until referral to the hospital and the influence on the amount of unnecessary referrals to the hospital.

Microbiological profile of diabetic foot infections in China and worldwide: a 20-year systematic review

Introduction

Pathogens causing diabetic foot infections (DFIs) vary by region globally; however, knowledge of the causative organism is essential for effective empirical treatment. We aimed to determine the incidence and antibiotic susceptibility of DFI pathogens worldwide, focusing on Asia and China.

Methods

Through a comprehensive literature search, we identified published studies on organisms isolated from DFI wounds from January 2000 to December 2020.

Results

Based on our inclusion criteria, we analyzed 245 studies that cumulatively reported 38,744 patients and 41,427 isolated microorganisms. DFI pathogens varied according to time and region. Over time, the incidence of Gram-positive and Gram-negative aerobic bacteria have decreased and increased, respectively. America and Asia have the highest (62.74%) and lowest (44.82%) incidence of Gram-negative bacteria, respectively. Africa has the highest incidence (26.90%) of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Asia has the highest incidence (49.36%) of Gram-negative aerobic bacteria with species infection rates as follows: Escherichia coli, 10.77%; Enterobacter spp., 3.95%; and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 11.08%, with higher local rates in China and Southeast Asia. Linezolid, vancomycin, and teicoplanin were the most active agents against Gram-positive aerobes, while imipenem and cefoperazone-sulbactam were the most active agents against Gram-negative aerobes.

Discussion

This systematic review showed that over 20 years, the pathogens causing DFIs varied considerably over time and region. This data may inform local clinical guidelines on empirical antibiotic therapy for DFI in China and globally. Regular large-scale epidemiological studies are necessary to identify trends in DFI pathogenic bacteria.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023447645.

Vascular service provision during the COVID-19 pandemic worsened major amputation rates in socially deprived diabetic populations

Introduction

The Coronavirus Disease - 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly impacted healthcare service provision and put diabetic patients at increased risk of adverse health outcomes. We aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence and demographic shift of major lower-limb amputation in diabetic patients.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of diabetic patient records undergoing major lower-limb amputation between 01/03/2019 and 01/03/2021 at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, the regional arterial hub for Sussex. Primary outcomes were amputation incidence rates and patient demographics compared between the prepandemic and pandemic cohorts.

Results

The incidence rate ratio of major lower-limb amputations shows a drop in amputations during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic (IRR 0.82; 95% CI 0.57-1.18). Data suggests a shift in the social deprivation background of patients receiving amputations to disproportionately affect those in the more deprived 50% of the population (p=0.038). Younger patients received more amputations during the pandemic compared to prepandemic levels (p=0.001).

Conclusion

Results suggest that during the COVID-19 pandemic there was a paradoxical reduction in amputations compared to prepandemic levels. However, changes to the demographic makeup of patient's receiving amputations are alarming as younger, and more deprived patients have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

Risk factors for malnutrition in patients with diabetic foot ulcer and its association with prolonged length of hospitalization

PURPOSE

The study was designed to investigate the occurrence and risk factors of malnutrition in diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) patients and examine the association between malnutrition and length of stay (LOS).

METHODS

This observational study included DFU hospitalized patients in two campuses of a hospital from January 2021 to June 2023. The diagnosis standard of malnutrition was established by using the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria. Patients were followed up to ascertain the length of hospitalization, and hospital stays longer than 17 days were considered as prolonged LOS. To explore the risk factors of malnutrition and the association between malnutrition and LOS, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Overall 219 DFU patients were enrolled, malnutrition was identified in 38.36% of patients according to GLIM criteria, and 92 patients (42%) were recognized as prolonged LOS. Logistic regression analyses showed that BMI (P <0.001), Alb (P = 0.002), HbA1c (P <0.001), ulcer infection (P <0.001), LOS (P = 0.010), and ABI (P = 0.024) were independent risk factors for malnutrition. Besides, malnutrition by GLIM criteria was closely related to prolonged LOS and malnourished DFU patients were 2.857 times (95% CI, 1.497-5.450; P = 0.001) likely to present prolonged LOS than that of normal nutrition.

CONCLUSION

Malnutrition was considered to be extremely prevalent in DFU patients and was associated with approximately three times higher likelihood of prolonged LOS. Implementing and disseminating the diagnostic criteria during routine practice is crucial, given the predictive efficacy of GLIM criteria.

Effects of Recombinant Human Granulocyte/Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor on Diabetic Lower Extremity Ulcers: Case Series of Nine Patients

BACKGROUND

Diabetic lower extremity ulcer, including diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) and leg ulcer, is one of the refractory complications of diabetes, the treatment of which is challenging, expensive, and lengthy. Recombinant Human Granulocyte/Macrophage Colony-stimulating Factor (rhGM-CSF) is an immunomodulatory cytokine that has been mainly applied in the treatment of hematological diseases. Clinical evidence regarding GM-CSF in the treatment of diabetic lower extremity ulcers is limited. This study is the first case series that investigates the repurpose effects of rhGM-CSF on diabetic ulcer healing in real clinical practice.

METHODS

Nine patients diagnosed with diabetes and refractory lower extremity ulcer (ulcer duration ≥2 weeks) were included from September 2021 to February 2023 in the Division of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Patients with Wagner grade ≥4 and SINDAD ≥5 were excluded. The included subjects were treated with rhGM-CSF plus standard of care (SOC) including glycemic control, foot care education, debridement of necrotic tissues, topical wound dressings, offloading, and infection control when necessary. The observation endpoint was complete epithelialization. Their clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, and therapeutic effects were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

The case series included 9 cases aged from 29 to 80 years and all the patients were male. Seven of 9 patients presented neuropathic ulcer. Only one case showed non-infected ulcer from tissue samples and one case presented ankle brachial index (ABI) <0.9. It was observed that the ulcer areas among these 9 patients gradually declined throughout the whole treatment period with the average healing velocity 0.32 ± 013 cm2/day and the mean time to complete healing 16.0 ± 3.7 days. The relative area (percentage of initial ulcer area) decreased to 66.7 ± 13.0% on average after the first treatment. Ulcers in all the 9 patients achieved complete epithelialization after 4-8 times treatments.

CONCLUSION

The case series suggests rhGM-CSF as a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of diabetic ulceration. More robust data from randomized controlled trials are required to further evaluate its clinical efficacy.