The Precipitating Factors of Amputation as Initial Treatment in Diabetic Foot / 대한족부족관절학회지

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the precipitating factors of amputation as initial treatment in diabetic foot patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between March, 1994 and February 2003, 41 cases (37 patients) diabetic foot patients who had diabetic ulcer, pyogenic inflammation and gangrene and followed up over 1 year were collected. Among them, We evaluate the precipitating factors of amputation for average 39.6months (12-118months). RESULTS: Among many factors, Wagner classification, pulse volume recording of toes, Ankle-Brachial Index and Albumin level are statistically significant in amputation patients. CONCLUSION: In determining the amputation of diabetic foot as initial treatment, the trauma history, circulation of foot and serum albumin level are important precipitating factors. So the education about preventing even minor trauma and maintaining good nutrition state decrease the amputation rate in diabetic foot patients.