Risk factor analysis for diabetic foot amputations

Objectives

To identify the risk factors of patients with diabetic foot ulcers who will require amputations, with special reference to Wagner's grading system.

Methodology

A total of 100 patients were included who were admitted with various grades of diabetic foot ulcers to the surgical units of Fauji Foundation Hospital. Risk factors such as Wagner's grade, family history of diabetes, compliance to treatment and HBAlc were compared with the final treatment outcome of limb salvage.

Results

Wagner's grade had a significant association with limb salvage (p=0.000). Other risk factors had no statistical significance.

Conclusion

Wagner's grading system should be more often used in the clinical assessment of patients with diabetic foot to predict limb salvage.

The Sri Lanka Journal of Surgery 2015; 33(4): 7-12