[The diabetic foot]

Neuropathy, arterial obstruction and infection are involved to varying degrees in the development of the 'diabetic foot'. A careful diagnosis is necessary in order to comprehend the various noxa and to introduce the adequate therapy. In case of the predominantly neuropathic foot with malum perforans, one must essentially proceed in a conservative way; only cornea callosities and osteomyelitic parts must be removed. In case of the predominantly angiopathic foot, revascularizing measures are most important. After improving the blood flow, the necrotic parts of the foot are sparingly resected. As prevention of a possible relapse, two things are necessary: accurately fitted shoes in order to prevent pressure points, and extremely careful foot care in order to prevent infections.