Use of Information Communication Technology Tools in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Prevention Programs: A Scoping Review

Information communication technology (ICT) tools are an integral part of day-to-day human activities. However, evidence of how ICT tools are used to engage individuals with diabetes to prevent diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) is limited. In this review, we summarize the evidence on ICT tools used in DFU prevention programs and associated outcomes.

We conducted a scoping review of the literature based on the Arksey and O'Malley methodologic framework. Four databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL) were searched from 1960 to 2020 using keywords. Two reviewers independently screened the articles and performed data extraction and summarization.

Seventeen of 312 articles screened met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. Eleven ICT tools were utilized in 4 types of intervention: patient education, multidimensional foot health programs, remote temperature monitoring and pressure-sensitive insole systems. The identified ICT tools were used for presenting educational information, follow-up reinforcement of education, counselling, self-monitoring, remote patient monitoring by health-care professionals, self-care reminders, problem-solving, motivation and communication. In 59% of the studies, the interventions led to a significant reduction in recurrence of DFUs, improvement in self-care behaviour and cognition, and reduction of risk factors.

This review provides insight into a range of ICT tools used in DFU prevention programs. The findings suggest that interventions involving 1 or more ICT tools are often effective in improving diabetic foot care-related outcomes. Therefore, DFU prevention programs should include ICT tools among their components.