An Innovative Treatment Using sterile Hyaluronic Acid Injections to Reduce Foot Ulcer Recurrence in Patients with...

Area of Science:

• Podiatry
• Diabetology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Diabetic foot ulcers pose a significant risk for recurrence and complications.
• Preventive strategies are crucial for high-risk diabetic patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of plantar hyaluronic acid injections using the Curacorn® technique in preventing diabetic foot ulcer recurrence.
• To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this minimally invasive approach.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study involving 14 patients with type 2 diabetes and a history of healed plantar foot ulcers.
• Patients received 3-4 treatment sessions of cross-linked hyaluronic acid gel injections.
• Follow-up period of 6-12 months to monitor ulcer recurrence.

Main Results:

• 50% of patients (7 out of 14) experienced no ulcer recurrence during the follow-up.
• Patients without recurrence received a significantly higher total volume of hyaluronic acid (mean 7.4 ml vs 3.9 ml).
• Recurrence in other patients occurred around six months post-treatment.

Conclusions:

• Plantar hyaluronic acid injection via the Curacorn® technique shows promise in reducing diabetic foot ulcer recurrence.
• Adequate administration of hyaluronic acid gel volume appears critical for efficacy.
• Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and optimize treatment protocols.