Chapters authored
Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Historical Overview
This chapter reviews the historical discoveries and the evolution of medical practices in the management of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). The knowledge acquired by ancient civilizations such as Babylon, China, Egypt, and India was further developed by the Greeks and Romans, who made significant improvements in foot amputations. The Arabs preserved and expanded these records, making them accessible to scientists during the European Renaissance. It was not until the early twentieth century that a better understanding of the complex etiological factors of DFUs began to emerge. A turning moment in the history of DFUs occurred in 1921 with the discovery of insulin, which effectively divided the timeline into two distinct periods: pre-insulin and post-insulin. While the role of revascularization in treating ischemic DFUs was established in the 1950s and 1960s, the importance of offloading was recognized in the 1970s and 1980s. Recently, the focus of DFU management has shifted to prevention, and multidisciplinary care involving podiatrists, nurses, endocrinologists, surgeons, and infectious disease specialists. Through the utilization of advanced technology and innovative therapies, we are now closer than ever to a future where DFUs will no longer pose a threat to patients’ health.
Part of the book: Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Perspective Chapter: Clinical Features and Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
This chapter aims to explore the clinical features and effective management strategies for diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), which, if not appropriately treated, can lead to serious consequences and ultimately require amputation. It is crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach that encompasses accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans. These ulcers have a multifactorial etiology and a wide range of clinical features that can be attributed to the ulcers themselves, the underlying causes contributing to their development, or their complications, particularly infections. However, timely and accurate diagnosis can be challenging due to a lack of sensation, making risk factor assessments and severity assessments through various classification systems necessary. Managing DFUs effectively requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes optimum glycemic control, performing wound debridement, relieving pressure from the affected area, controlling infections, and utilizing appropriate dressings.
Part of the book: Diabetic Foot Ulcers