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Wound Care & Skin Grafting

Warning: The images of this page are graphic in nature. Below are actual foot wounds

diabetic foot wounds

Treatment of Diabetic Foot Wounds: A Comprehensive Approach to Amputation Prevention

2 Things that need to occur with any foot wound:

1. Getting healed
2. Staying healed!

Managing diabetic foot wounds requires a multidisciplinary approach to effectively promote healing and prevent complications such as amputation. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot ulcers due to poor circulation, nerve damage, and impaired immune function. To ensure optimal outcomes, a comprehensive treatment plan should be implemented.

Major Causes of Diabetic Foot Wounds

Experiencing Foot or Ankle Pain?

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Diabetic Foot Wounds Treatment

Here’s an overview of the key components involved in the treatment of diabetic foot wounds with a focus on amputation prevention.

By adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses all aspects of diabetic foot wound management, including wound assessment, offloading pressure, infection management, advanced wound dressings, vascular assessment, blood glucose control, patient education, and rehabilitation

In the vast majority of cases (98%), the condition is successfully treated with conservative measures. In the minority of cases that do not respond completely with conservative measures, there are modern minimally-invasive surgical procedures to address the condition

Wound Care Modalities Used at We Treat Feet Podiatry

Wound care modalities refer to various methods and techniques used to treat and manage wounds. At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we specialize in advanced wound care treatment.  The risk of amputation and death is very elevated with diabetes.  Over the counter wound medications are seldom sufficient for wound care.  Please read the labels of all of these medications before applying them to your foot.  Call us if you want a consultation for the most advanced wound care available.

Cleaning and irrigation

This involves washing the wound with a mild cleanser or sterile saline solution to remove debris and bacteria.

Dressings

Different types of dressings, such as adhesive, gauze, hydrocolloid, or foam dressings, can be used to protect the wound, promote healing, and maintain a moist environment.

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT)

This involves the application of a vacuum dressing to the wound, which helps to promote healing and remove excess fluid.

Debridement

This process involves the removal of dead or damaged tissue from the wound to facilitate healing. It can be done through surgical, mechanical, enzymatic, or autolytic methods.

Compression therapy

Compression bandages or garments are used to apply pressure on the wound and surrounding tissues to reduce swelling, promote circulation, and aid in healing.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT):

In HBOT, the patient is exposed to 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which helps to increase oxygen levels in the blood and enhance wound healing.

Topical medications

Various topical ointments, creams, or gels may be used to prevent infection, promote healing, or manage specific wound conditions, such as antimicrobial agents or growth factors.

Biological dressings

These include the use of biological materials, such as skin grafts or synthetic substitutes, to cover the wound and promote healing.

Electrical stimulation

Electrical currents can be applied to the wound to stimulate tissue growth and enhance healing.

Laser therapy

Low-level laser therapy can be used to promote wound healing by stimulating cell activity and increasing blood flow.

Surgical interventions

In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to repair and close complex or severe wounds.

Patient education and support

Proper wound care techniques, hygiene practices, and lifestyle modifications are essential, along with emotional support and counseling to promote patient well-being during the healing process.

Experiencing Foot or Ankle Pain?

We’re here to help! Contact our friendly staff and connect with our expert doctors

We treat feet podiatry has been proud to serve the Maryland area’s Foot & Ankle needs for over 15 years! From bunions to twisted ankles to diabetic wound care and everything in between.

Our experienced team is dedicated to get you back on feet again!