The Dutch consensus on the diabetic foot

In 1996 the Dutch Diabetes Federation installed a consensus committee to formulate practical guidelines for daily practice to prevent, diagnose and treat foot-related complications in patients with diabetes mellitus. A list of definitions was formulated. A new ulcer classification was introduced. Pathophysiology, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies were discussed with special attention for patients with a high risk foot and for prevention instruction. After several rounds of implementation the definite document was unanimously accepted in the fall of 1998.