Lower extremity management in patients with diabetes

Foot ulcers are a major cause of disability, morbidity, and mortality in people with diabetes. The three major etiological factors for diabetic foot ulcers are peripheral neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, and infection. Tight control of blood glucose and proper foot care are essential for prevention of foot ulcers and lower extremity amputations. Treatment of lower extremity diabetic ulcers typically includes surgical debridement of the wound and appropriate oral or intravenous antibiotics. Becaplermin gel, a prescription, recombinant wound-healing therapy, may be used to promote healing of diabetic foot ulcers in select patients. Pharmacists can make a significant contribution to the prevention of diabetic foot ulcers and lower extremity amputations.