INTENSIVE CONSERVATIVE IN CERTAIN COMPLICATED CASES OF DIABETICFOOT CAN SALVAGE LIMB AND PREVENT AMPUTATION

ABSTRACT
Background: Foot infection associated with diabetes, the so- called “Diabetic Foot =DF“, is a common problemamong diabetics, especially in neglected or uncontrolled cases. Diabetic foot infections require attention to local (foot)
and systemic (metabolic) issues and coordinated management, preferably by a multidisciplinary foot care team. In most
cases, amputation of a part of a limb is usually applied. In the lower limb, this usually bellow – knee (BKA) or above –knee
(AKA) amputation. In our study try to approach such cases with aggressive conservative management to save the limb.
Aim: To show the benefits of intensive conservative management of some patients with diabetic foot (DF) in
certain situations and if this management can salvage limb and avoid amputation. Patients and Methods: This study includes (100) patients seen as a specialized center for endocrinology and
diabetes (SCED) and Al-Kindy Teaching Hospital (ATH) during the period from February 2008 to December 2011.
Average age was 47 years (range 25-89). Males were 63 (63%) and females were 37 (37%). All patients in the study were
having type 2 diabetes (T2D) with a server and complicated foot infection (diabetic foot, DF).
Results: The end result of treatment was complete wound healing in 30 patients (35.294%), scar or ulcer in 30
patients (35.294%) while in 25 patients (29.412%) needs more than 60 days for complete healing. Conclusion: Intensive conservative management of diabetic foot (DF) can slaving extremity and avoid
amputation.
KEYWORDS: Types 2 Diabetes, Diabetic Foot, Conservative Management, Insulin Therapy, Amputation