Out-of-pocket expenditure among patients with diabetic foot ulcer in a tertiary care hospital of south India: A cross-sectional study.

Diabetic foot ulcer is a debilitating complication of long-standing diabetes mellitus. Patients lose their earning potential, face repeated hospitalizations, and are forced to bear heavy treatment costs. This places an enormous financial burden on the patients and their families. This study seeks to ascertain the out-of-pocket expenditure among these patients and correlate it with their risk factor profile. In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, a total of 154 patients with diabetic foot ulcers or amputations have been studied with an elaborate patient questionnaire and relevant clinical examinations. The costs incurred and the risk factors of the patients were analyzed for statistical association. The median total annual out-of-pocket expenditure for the management of diabetic foot ulcers among the study participants was found to be ₹29 775 (₹9650-₹81 120) ($378.14 [$122.56-$1030.22]). Out of the total expenditure, 58.49% went towards direct medical costs, 5.64% towards direct non-medical costs, and 35.88% for indirect costs. Medications, ulcer dressing and periodic debridement have accounted for 79.26% of direct medical costs. Transportation (61.37%) and patient's loss of income (89.45%) account for the major costs under the direct non-medical and indirect cost categories, respectively. A high ulcer grade and area, long ulcer duration, and past history of ulcers have higher expenditure. Patients seeking treatment from private establishments and those engaged in professional/skilled occupations have higher expenses. Adequate dressing of foot ulcers and proper footwear are associated with lower treatment expenditure. 68.8% of the participants have faced catastrophic expenditure due to treatment costs of diabetic foot ulcers. Adequate glycaemic control and proper foot care are necessary. Patients must seek medical care at the earliest in case of foot ulceration. Clinicians must provide proper wound care, institute effective antibiotics, and manage the complications. Government and insurance schemes are required to alleviate the patients' financial burden.

The quest for wellness: How to optimise self-care strategies for diabetic foot management?

Diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) is common and highly recurrent, negatively impacting the individuals' quality of life. The 2023 guidelines of the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot emphasise that adherence to foot self-care recommendations is one of the most important factors in DFU prevention. These guidelines also briefly mention that depression and other psychosocial problems can hamper treatment and ulcer healing. Moreover, a new clinical question was added on psychological interventions for ulcer prevention, although the evidence regarding the role of psychological and social factors is still limited. To help the field progress, this narrative overview discusses how a stronger focus on psychological factors by both researchers and clinicians could improve the care for people at high DFU risk. The review starts with a testimony of a person living with DFU, explaining that for him, the absence of shared decision-making has been a key barrier to successful foot self-care implementation. Intervention studies that address patient-reported barriers are still scarce, and are therefore urgently needed. Furthermore, the key elements of psychological interventions found to be successful in managing diabetes are yet to be implemented in DFU risk management. Importantly, research evidence indicates that commonly advocated foot self-care recommendations may be insufficient in preventing DFU recurrence, whereas digital technology appears to effectively reduce recurrent DFU. More research is therefore needed to identify determinants of patient acceptance of digital technology.

An integrated personalized assistive devices approach to reduce the risk of foot ulcer recurrence in diabetes (DIASSIST): study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Preventing foot ulcers in people with diabetes can increase quality of life and reduce costs. Despite the availability of various interventions to prevent foot ulcers, recurrence rates remain high. We hypothesize that a multimodal treatment approach incorporating various footwear, self-management, and education interventions that matches an individual person's needs can reduce the risk of ulcer recurrence with beneficial cost-utility. The aim of this study is to assess the effect on foot ulcer recurrence, footwear adherence, and cost-utility of an integrated personalized assistive devices approach in high-risk people with diabetes. METHODS: In a parallel-group multicenter randomized controlled trial, 126 adult participants with diabetes mellitus type 1 or 2, loss of protective sensation based on the presence of peripheral neuropathy, a healed plantar foot ulcer in the preceding 4 years, and possession of any type of custom-made footwear will be included. Participants will be randomly assigned to either enhanced therapy or usual care. Enhanced therapy consists of usual care and additionally a personalized treatment approach including pressure-optimized custom-made footwear, pressure-optimized custom-made footwear for indoor use, at-home daily foot temperature monitoring, and structured education, which includes motivational interviewing and personalized feedback on adherence and self-care. Participants will be followed for 12 months. Assessments include barefoot and in-shoe plantar pressure measurements; questionnaires concerning quality of life, costs, disease, and self-care knowledge; physical activity and footwear use monitoring; and clinical monitoring for foot ulcer outcomes. The study is powered for 3 primary outcomes: foot ulcer recurrence, footwear adherence, and cost-utility, the primary clinical, patient-related, and health-economic outcome respectively. DISCUSSION: This is the first study to integrate multiple interventions for ulcer prevention into a personalized state-of-the-art treatment approach and assess their combined efficacy in a randomized controlled trial in people with diabetes at high ulcer risk. Proven effectiveness, usability, and cost-utility will facilitate implementation in healthcare, improve the quality of life of high-risk people with diabetes, and reduce treatment costs. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05236660. Registered on 11 February 2022.

Patient Perspectives on the Burden and Prevention of Diabetes-Related Foot Disease.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to understand patient perspectives about the impact and prevention of diabetes-related foot disease (DFD). METHODS: An online survey was distributed to patients with a history of DFD during 2020. The survey was designed alongside clinical specialists and DFD patients and utilized the health belief model. It asked about the impact of DFD on health, perceptions on preventive strategies, perceived need for additional support, and patient preferences for telehealth in DFD management. Quantitative data were summarized descriptively and compared between groups. Open-text responses were analyzed using conceptual content analysis. RESULTS: Of 80 participants with a history of DFD, foot ulcers were the complication most often experienced, with over two-thirds having been admitted to hospital for a DFD-related issue and over one-third having a DFD-related amputation. Participants had ranging perceptions on the effect of DFD on health, from minimal to crippling. Those with previous severe DFD complications leading to hospital admission found a lack of mobility and independence the consequences of most concern. Using offloading footwear was perceived as very important for preventing DFD complications, although the use of offloading footwear was low, with participants citing issues relating to cost, comfort, appearance, and access to footwear as barriers to better adherence. Perceptions on telehealth were mixed, with many participants not having access to or being comfortable with the use of digital technologies. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with DFD require additional supports for effective prevention, including offloading footwear.

Final efficacy and cost analysis of a fish skin graft vs standard of care in the management of chronic diabetic foot ulcers: a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: DFUs remain a cause of significant morbidity. OBJECTIVE: This is the third of 3 planned articles reporting on a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial evaluating the use of omega-3-rich acellular FSG compared with CAT in the management of DFUs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 102 patients with a DFU (n = 51 FSG, n = 51 CAT) participated in the trial as ITT candidates, with 77 of those patients included in the PP analysis (n = 43 FSG, n = 34 CAT). Six months after treatment, patients with healed ulcers were followed up for ulcer recurrence. A cost analysis model was applied in both treatment groups. RESULTS: The proportion of closed wounds at 12 weeks was compared, as were the secondary outcomes of healing rate and mean PAR. Diabetic foot wounds treated with FSG were significantly more likely to achieve closure than those managed with CAT (ITT: 56.9% vs 31.4%; P =.0163). The mean PAR at 12 weeks was 86.3% for FSG vs 64.0% for CAT (P =.0282). CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of DFUs with FSG resulted in significantly more wounds healed and an annualized cost savings of $2818 compared with CAT.

Saving the foot: Simple orthopaedic surgical intervention demonstrates improved outcomes and reduced costs.

BACKGROUND: Forefoot ulceration in diabetes requires significant resources, with high cost and low rates of success. The authors present the results of tendon procedures (percutaneous toe tenotomy and percutaneous tendo-achilles lengthening) under local anaesthetic to adjust mechanics in patients with diabetic neuropathic forefoot ulceration. METHODS: Retrospective review of electronic patient record of 19 patients (22 feet) undergoing local anaesthetic tendon procedures between April 2019 and April 2021 with a 12 month follow up period. Size of ulcer, rate of ulcer healing, complication rates and ulcer recurrence were recorded and compared to a population of conservatively-managed patients (14 patients, 15 feet) treated prior to the introduction of tendon procedures. All clinical information obtained from electronic patient records. RESULTS: All patients undergoing tendon procedures achieved complete ulcer healing at a mean time of 3.3 weeks for toe tip ulcers (after toe tenotomy) and 4.5 weeks for metatarsal head ulcers (after Achilles lengthening). There were no admissions for diabetic foot sepsis, reduced recurrence, reduced amputation rates and no mortality. Of the conservatively managed cohort, only 3 of the 15 achieved ulcer resolution without recurrence within the 12 month study period. The cohort managed conservatively had an average cost of £ 9902 per patient, per annum. The intervention cost was £ 1211 per patient, saving an average of £ 8691 per patient, per annum with ulcer resolution (88 % reduction in costs). CONCLUSION: Significant patient benefit, reduction in resource use and cost saving was seen with this simple intervention, which merits full evaluation in a clinical trial. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level-IV.

Assessment of in-shoe pressure: Development of a clinical user guide based on a DELPHI-derived consensus.

BACKGROUND: The F-Scan (F-Scan System by Tekscan, Boston, USA) is an in-shoe pressure measurement device used to provide dynamic pressure, force and timing information to guide appropriate offloading of plantar foot ulcers. Despite the clinical utility of an in-shoe pressure measuring device there are some limitations in the validity and reliability of the output of the F-Scan. The aim of this study was to develop a consensus-based guideline following information provided by experienced clinicians, synthesis of research evidence and manufacturer's guidelines on the most appropriate use and interpretation of the data generated by the F-Scan to manage plantar foot ulceration. METHODS: Using the Delphi method a series of sixteen consensus statements were developed following a two-step questionnaire utilising clinicians feedback, a review of evidence and the manufacturer's guidelines. FINDINGS: Seventeen clinicians responded to the first questionnaire and 11 to the second, that included 8 podiatrists and 9 pedorthists working in the public and private sectors. Of the sixteen statements there was strong consensus for ten and moderate consensus for a further four. Only two statements failed to reach consensus and the feedback from the respondents was of great value providing sound clinical rationale for their rejection. INTERPRETATION: The objective of this study has been achieved in developing a clear and concise set of guiding statements (Table 1) to standardise use of the F-Scan. The application of the guiding statements will encourage standardisation of practice with the aim of highlighting the limitations of the system and reducing potential systematic error in measurement from output produced.

Dr E W Price, the discoverer of podoconiosis.

A straightforward biography of Dr E W Price, the discoverer of podoconiosis, a medical missionary who was also the first to elucidate plantar ulcers in leprosy.

Risk assessment and classification for foot ulceration among patients with type 2 diabetes in South Korea.

AIM: This study aimed to investigate the distribution of foot conditions, the risk of foot ulceration and its associated factors in patients with diabetes. Few studies have focused on the risk of foot ulceration in patients with diabetes. METHODS: A total of 267 patients with diabetes who attended outpatient clinics in two tertiary referral hospitals were recruited from June to September 2016. The risk of foot ulceration was classified using the American Diabetes Association (ADA), International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) and Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) classification systems. The risk categories of each system were reclassified into high- (categories of 2 and 3 for the ADA and IWGDF systems and high for the SIGN system) and low-risk. RESULTS: Foot deformity was the most prevalent condition (38.2%). Among 261 patients without active ulcers, between 17.6% to 35.2% were classified in the high-risk group and overall agreement among systems ranged from .42 to .56 of the kappa statistic. Insulin treatment was consistently associated with a high-risk of foot ulceration. CONCLUSIONS: As the risk varies between systems, nurses should select a suitable classification system through validation studies and assess the risk in patients with diabetes, particularly, those receiving insulin treatment.

Clinical and economic outcomes of a multidisciplinary team approach in a lower extremity amputation prevention programme for diabetic foot ulcer care in an Asian population: A case-control study.

Present guidelines recommend a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach to diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) care, but relevant data from Asia are lacking. We aim to evaluate the clinical and economic outcomes of an MDT approach in a lower extremity amputation prevention programme (LEAPP) for DFU care in an Asian population. We performed a case-control study of 84 patients with DFU between January 2017 and October 2017 (retrospective control) vs 117 patients with DFU between December 2017 and July 2018 (prospective LEAPP cohort). Comparing the clinical outcomes between the retrospective cohort and the LEAPP cohort, there was a significant decrease in mean time from referral to index clinic visit (38.6 vs 9.5 days, P < .001), increase in outpatient podiatry follow-up (33% vs 76%, P < .001), decrease in 1-year minor amputation rate (14% vs 3%, P = .007), and decrease in 1-year major amputation rate (9% vs 3%, P = .05). Simulation of cost avoidance demonstrated an annualised cost avoidance of USD $1.86m (SGD $2.5m) for patients within the LEAPP cohort. In conclusion, similar to the data from Western societies, an MDT approach in an Asian population, via a LEAPP for patients with DFU, demonstrated a significant reduction in minor and major amputation rates, with annualised cost avoidance of USD $1.86m.

Predictive values of foot plantar pressure assessment in patients with midfoot deformity secondary to Charcot neuroarthropathy.

AIMS: The principal aim of this study was to identify a cut-off point along the spectrum of peak plantar midfoot pressure that has an optimum combination of sensitivity and specificity to screen for neuropathic ulceration in patients with Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN). METHODS: A 1-year outcome study was performed in twenty-five patients with diabetes, affected with chronic CN midfoot deformity. Peak plantar pressure (PPP) and pressure/time Integral (PTI) in the midfoot region were registered. For selecting the optimal diagnostic cut-off points on the scale of pressure measurement, ROC curves were used. RESULTS: Twelve (48%) patients developed a plantar midfoot ulcer. Baseline PPP (24.04 ± 6.33 Vs. 12.85 ± 3.29 N/cm2) and PTI (11.89 ± 4.60 Vs. 5.42 ± 2.26 N/cm2/s) were significantly higher in the ulcerated group (p < .001 and p < .001, respectively). Using ROC analyses, optimal cut-off point for PPP was 16.45 N/cm2, yielding a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 85%; and for PTI, optimal cut-off point was 7.2 N/cm2/s, yielding a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 77%. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with CN midfoot deformity with cut-off values for PPP of 16.45 N/cm2 and PTI of 7.2 N/cm2/s showed an elevated risk of neuropathic ulceration in the plantar area of the midfoot.

Human Wound and Its Burden: Updated 2020 Compendium of Estimates.

Significance: Chronic wounds impact the quality of life (QoL) of nearly 2.5% of the total population in the United States and the management of wounds has a significant economic impact on health care. Given the aging population, the continued threat of diabetes and obesity worldwide, and the persistent problem of infection, it is expected that chronic wounds will continue to be a substantial clinical, social, and economic challenge. In 2020, the coronavirus disease (COVID) pandemic dramatically disrupted health care worldwide, including wound care. A chronic nonhealing wound (CNHW) is typically correlated with comorbidities such as diabetes, vascular deficits, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. These risk factors make persons with CNHW at high risk for severe, sometimes lethal outcomes if infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (pathogen causing COVID-19). The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted several aspects of the wound care continuum, including compliance with wound care visits, prompting alternative approaches (use of telemedicine and creation of videos to help with wound dressing changes among others), and encouraging a do-it-yourself wound dressing protocol and use of homemade remedies/substitutions. Recent Advances: There is a developing interest in understanding how the social determinants of health impact the QoL and outcomes of wound care patients. Furthermore, addressing wound care in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of telemedicine options in the continuum of care. Future Directions: The economic, clinical, and social impact of wounds continues to rise and requires appropriate investment and a structured approach to wound care, education, and related research.

Health service organisation impact on lower extremity amputations in people with type 2 diabetes with foot ulcers: systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIMS: Despite the evidence available on the epidemiology of diabetic foot ulcers and associated complications, it is not clear how specific organizational aspects of health care systems can positively affect their clinical trajectory. We aim to evaluate the impact of organizational aspects of care on lower extremity amputation rates among people with type 2 diabetes affected by foot ulcers. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review of the scientific literature published between 1999 and 2019, using the following key terms as search criteria: people with type 2 diabetes, diagnosed with diabetic foot ulcer, treated with specific processes and care pathways, and LEA as primary outcome. Overall results were reported as pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals obtained using fixed and random effects models. RESULTS: A total of 57 studies were found eligible, highlighting the following arrangements: dedicated teams, care pathways and protocols, multidisciplinary teams, and combined interventions. Among them, seven studies qualified for a meta-analysis. According to the random effects model, interventions including any of the four arrangements were associated with a 29% reduced risk of any type of lower extremity amputation (OR = 0.71; 95% CI 0.52-0.96). The effect was larger when focusing on major LEAs alone, leading to a 48% risk reduction (OR = 0.52; 95% CI 0.30-0.91). CONCLUSIONS: Specific organizational arrangements including multidisciplinary teams and care pathways can prevent half of the amputations in people with diabetes and foot ulcers. Further studies using standardized criteria are needed to investigate the cost-effectiveness to facilitate wider implementation of improved organizational arrangements. Similarly, research should identify specific roadblocks to translating evidence into action. These may be structures and processes at the health system level, e.g. availability of professionals with the right skillset, reimbursement mechanisms, and clear organizational intervention implementation guidelines.

Assessment of Simple Bedside Wound Characteristics for a Prediction Model for Diabetic Foot Ulcer Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Evidence-based learning systems built on prediction models can support wound care community nurses (WCCNs) during diabetic foot ulcer care sessions. Several prediction models in the area of diabetic foot ulcer healing have been developed, most built on cardiovascular measurement data. Two other data types are patient information (i.e. sex and hemoglobin A1c) and wound characteristics (i.e. wound area and wound duration); these data relate to the status of the diabetic foot ulcer and are easily accessible for WCCNs. The aim of the study was to assess simple bedside wound characteristics for a prediction model for diabetic foot ulcer outcomes. METHOD: Twenty predictor variables were tested. A pattern prediction model was used to forecast whether a given diabetic foot ulcer would (i) increase in size (or not) or (ii) decrease in size. Sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) in a receiver-operating characteristics curve were calculated. RESULTS: A total of 162 diabetic foot ulcers were included. In combination, the predictor variables necrosis, wound size, granulation, fibrin, dry skin, and age were most informative, in total an AUC of 0.77. CONCLUSIONS: Wound characteristics have potential to predict wound outcome. Future research should investigate implementation of the prediction model in an evidence-based learning system.

Costo-efectividad de las intervenciones de enfermería para el manejo de úlceras por pie diabético: revisión sistemática / Cost-effectiveness of nursing interventions for diabetic foot ulcer management: systematic review / Custo-efetividade das intervenções de enfermagem para o tratamento das úlceras do pé diabético: uma revisão sistemática

Introducción. Las intervenciones de enfermería usadas para el tratamiento de las úlceras por pie diabético incluyen técnicas de cura tradicionales y avanzadas. Frecuentemente su elección depende del criterio personal de la enfermera, en lugar del reconocimiento de la relación costo-efectividad. El objetivo de este estudio es identificar las intervenciones de enfermería de mayor costo-efectividad para el manejo de pacientes con úlceras por pie diabético. Metodología. Se realizó una revisión sistemática en Pubmed, Cochrane y la Biblioteca Virtual De La Salud. Se incluyeron estudios aleatorizados y no aleatorizados de cualquier intervención de enfermería usada para el manejo de úlcera por pie diabético con reporte de costo-efectividad. La selección de los artículos elegibles fue realizada por dos evaluadores independientes. El riesgo de sesgos fue evaluado con las guías Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Resultados. Seis de los ocho artículos incluidos fueron clasificados con alto riesgo de sesgos. Las dos intervenciones en las que se evidenció una mejor relación costo-efectividad en comparación con el grupo control fueron el uso de Beta-Glucan gel (comparado con placebo) y la terapia de presión negativa (comparada con terapia de herida húmeda avanzada). Discusión. Guías nacionales e internacionales para el manejo de enfermería de úlceras por pie diabético proponen al menos 15 diferentes intervenciones. Sin embargo, la escasa disponibilidad de estudios de alta calidad sobre la relación costo-efectividad dificulta la selección y genera mayor variabilidad en las prácticas de enfermería. Conclusión. Es necesario realizar estudios de la relación costo-efectividad con comparaciones directas de las intervenciones de enfermería para el manejo de úlceras por pie diabético. Cómo citar. Vásquez-Hernández, S., Rico-Ardila, D., Gómez-Camargo, L., Álvarez-Quintero, L. Costo-efectividad de las intervenciones de enfermería para el manejo de úlceras por pie diabético: revisión sistemática. MedUNAB. 2021;24(1): 13-26. Doi: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3832

Introduction. Nursing interventions used for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers include traditional and advanced healing techniques. Often their choice depends on the nurse's personal judgment, rather than recognition of cost-effectiveness. The objective of this study is to identify the most cost-effective nursing interventions for the management of patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Methodology. A systematic review was conducted at Pubmed, Cochrane and the Virtual Health Library. Randomized and non-randomized studies of any nursing intervention used for diabetic foot ulcer management with reported cost-effectiveness were included. The selection of eligible articles was made by two independent reviewers. The risk of bias was assessed using the following guidelines: Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Results. Six of the eight included articles were classified at high risk of bias. The two interventions in which a better cost-effectiveness ratio was evidenced compared to the control group were the use of Beta-Glucan gel (compared to placebo) and negative pressure wound therapy (compared to advanced wet wound therapy). Discussion. National and international guidelines for the nursing management of diabetic foot ulcers propose at least 15 different interventions. However, the limited availability of high-quality cost-effectiveness studies makes selection difficult and generates greater variability in nursing practices. Conclusion. Cost-effectiveness studies with direct comparisons of nursing interventions for diabetic foot ulcer management are needed. Cómo citar. Vásquez-Hernández, S., Rico-Ardila, D., Gómez-Camargo, L., Álvarez-Quintero, L. Costo-efectividad de las intervenciones de enfermería para el manejo de úlceras por pie diabético: revisión sistemática. MedUNAB. 2021;24(1): 13-26. Doi: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3832

Introdução. As intervenções de enfermagem usadas para tratar úlceras do pé diabético incluem técnicas de cura tradicionais e avançadas. Frequentemente, sua escolha depende do julgamento pessoal da enfermeira, ao invés do reconhecimento da relação custo-efetividade. O objetivo deste estudo é identificar as intervenções de enfermagem com um maior custo-efetividade para o tratamento de pacientes com úlceras de pé diabético. Metodologia. Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática no Pubmed, Cochrane e na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde. Foram incluídos estudos randomizados e não randomizados de qualquer intervenção de enfermagem utilizada para o tratamento de úlceras do pé diabético com relatórios de custo-efetividade. A seleção dos artigos elegíveis foi feita por dois avaliadores independentes. O risco de tendências foi avaliado com as diretrizes do Critical Appraisal Skills Program. Resultados. Seis dos oito artigos incluídos foram classificados como de alto risco de tendência. As duas intervenções que mostraram uma melhor relação custo-efetividade em comparação com o grupo de controle foram o uso de gel de Beta-Glucan (em comparação com o placebo) e a terapia de pressão negativa (em comparação com a terapia avançada de feridas úmidas). Discussão. Diretrizes nacionais e internacionais para o tratamento de enfermagem de úlceras do pé diabético propõem pelo menos 15 intervenções diferentes. No entanto, a disponibilidade limitada de estudos de alta qualidade sobre a relação custo-efetividade torna difícil a seleção e leva a uma maior variabilidade nas práticas de enfermagem. Conclusão. São necessários estudos que tratem a relação custo-efetividade com comparações diretas de intervenções de enfermagem para o tratamento de úlceras do pé diabético. Cómo citar. Vásquez-Hernández, S., Rico-Ardila, D., Gómez-Camargo, L., Álvarez-Quintero, L. Costo-efectividad de las intervenciones de enfermería para el manejo de úlceras por pie diabético: revisión sistemática. MedUNAB. 2021;24(1): 13-26. Doi: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3832

Cost-effectiveness of nursing interventions for diabetic foot ulcer management: systematic review / Costo-efectividad de las intervenciones de enfermería para el manejo de úlceras por pie diabético: revisión sistemática / Custo-efetividade das intervenções de enfermagem para o tratamento das úlceras do pé diabético: uma revisão sistemática

Introducción. Nursing interventions used for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers include traditional and advanced healing techniques. Often their choice depends on the nurse's personal judgment, rather than recognition of cost-effectiveness. The objective of this study is to identify the most cost-effective nursing interventions for the management of patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Methodology. A systematic review was conducted at Pubmed, Cochrane and the Virtual Health Library. Randomized and non-randomized studies of any nursing intervention used for diabetic foot ulcer management with reported cost-effectiveness were included. The selection of eligible articles was made by two independent reviewers. The risk of bias was assessed using the following guidelines: Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Results. Six of the eight included articles were classified at high risk of bias. The two interventions in which a better cost-effectiveness ratio was evidenced compared to the control group were the use of Beta- Glucan gel (compared to placebo) and negative pressure wound therapy (compared to advanced wet wound therapy). Discussion. National and international guidelines for the nursing management of diabetic foot ulcers propose at least 15 different interventions. However, the limited availability of high-quality cost-effectiveness studies makes selection difficult and generates greater variability in nursing practices. Conclusion. Cost-effectiveness studies with direct comparisons of nursing interventions for diabetic foot ulcer management are needed. Citation. Vásquez-Hernández, S., Rico-Ardila, D., Gómez-Camargo, L., Álvarez-Quintero, L. Cost-effectiveness of nursing interventions for diabetic foot ulcer management: systematic review. MedUNAB. 2021;24(1): 27-40. Doi: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3832

Introduction. Las intervenciones de enfermería usadas para el tratamiento de las úlceras por pie diabético incluyen técnicas de cura tradicionales y avanzadas. Frecuentemente su elección depende del criterio personal de la enfermera, en lugar del reconocimiento de la relación costo-efectividad. El objetivo de este estudio es identificar las intervenciones de enfermería de mayor costo-efectividad para el manejo de pacientes con úlceras por pie diabético. Metodología. Se realizó una revisión sistemática en Pubmed, Cochrane y la Biblioteca Virtual De La Salud. Se incluyeron estudios aleatorizados y no aleatorizados de cualquier intervención de enfermería usada para el manejo de úlcera por pie diabético con reporte de costo-efectividad. La selección de los artículos elegibles fue realizada por dos evaluadores independientes. El riesgo de sesgos fue evaluado con las guías Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Resultados. Seis de los ocho artículos incluidos fueron clasificados con alto riesgo de sesgos. Las dos intervenciones en las que se evidenció una mejor relación costo- efectividad en comparación con el grupo control fueron el uso de Beta-Glucan gel (comparado con placebo) y la terapia de presión negativa (comparada con terapia de herida húmeda avanzada). Discusión. Guías nacionales e internacionales para el manejo de enfermería de úlceras por pie diabético proponen al menos 15 diferentes intervenciones. Sin embargo, la escasa disponibilidad de estudios de alta calidad sobre la relación costo-efectividad dificulta la selección y genera mayor variabilidad en las prácticas de enfermería. Conclusión. Es necesario realizar estudios de la relación costo-efectividad con comparaciones directas de las intervenciones de enfermería para el manejo de úlceras por pie diabético. Citation. Vásquez-Hernández, S., Rico-Ardila, D., Gómez-Camargo, L., Álvarez-Quintero, L. Cost-effectiveness of nursing interventions for diabetic foot ulcer management: systematic review. MedUNAB. 2021;24(1): 27-40. Doi: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3832

Introdução. As intervenções de enfermagem usadas para tratar úlceras do pé diabético incluem técnicas de cura tradicionais e avançadas. Frequentemente, sua escolha depende do julgamento pessoal da enfermeira, ao invés do reconhecimento da relação custo-efetividade. O objetivo deste estudo é identificar as intervenções de enfermagem com um maior custo-efetividade para o tratamento de pacientes com úlceras de pé diabético. Metodologia. Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática no Pubmed, Cochrane e na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde. Foram incluídos estudos randomizados e não randomizados de qualquer intervenção de enfermagem utilizada para o tratamento de úlceras do pé diabético com relatórios de custo-efetividade. A seleção dos artigos elegíveis foi feita por dois avaliadores independentes. O risco de tendências foi avaliado com as diretrizes do Critical Appraisal Skills Program. Resultados. Seis dos oito artigos incluídos foram classificados como de alto risco de tendência. As duas intervenções que mostraram uma melhor relação custo-efetividade em comparação com o grupo de controle foram o uso de gel de Beta-Glucan (em comparação com o placebo) e a terapia de pressão negativa (em comparação com a terapia avançada de feridas úmidas). Discussão. Diretrizes nacionais e internacionais para o tratamento de enfermagem de úlceras do pé diabético propõem pelo menos 15 intervenções diferentes. No entanto, a disponibilidade limitada de estudos de alta qualidade sobre a relação custo-efetividade torna difícil a seleção e leva a uma maior variabilidade nas práticas de enfermagem. Conclusão. São necessários estudos que tratem a relação custo-efetividade com comparações diretas de intervenções de enfermagem para o tratamento de úlceras do pé diabético. Citation. Vásquez-Hernández, S., Rico-Ardila, D., Gómez-Camargo, L., Álvarez-Quintero, L. Cost-effectiveness of nursing interventions for diabetic foot ulcer management: systematic review. MedUNAB. 2021;24(1): 27-40. Doi: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3832

Risk assessment for foot ulcers among Tunisian subjects with diabetes: a cross sectional outpatient study.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot is an underestimated and redoubtable diabetes complication. The aims of our study were to assess diabetic foot ulcer risk factors according to International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) classification, stratify patients into risk categories and identify factors associated with higher-risk grade. METHODS: Cross-sectional setting over a period of 07 months, patients were randomly selected from the diabetic outpatients attending our unit of diabetology. Questionnaire and clinical examination were made by the same physician. Patients free of active foot ulcer were included. RESULTS: Among 230 patients evaluated, 10 had an active foot ulcer and were excluded. Five patients (2.27%) had a history of foot ulcer and 3(1.36%) had a lower-limb amputation. Sensory neuropathy, as measured by the 5.07(10 g) Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing, was present in 23.63% of patients, whereas 36.82% had a peripheral arterial disease based on clinical findings, and 43.63% had foot deformities. According to the IWGDF classification, Group 0: 72.72%, Group 1: 5.9%, Group 2: 17.73% and Group 3: 3.63%. After univariate analysis, patients in higher-risk groups were significantly more often female, had higher age and BMI, longer diabetes duration, elevated waist circumference, low school level, retinopathy and hyperkeratosis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified 3 significant independent factors associated with high-risk groups: retinopathy (OR = 2.529, CI95 [1.131-5.655], p = 0.024), hyperkeratosis (OR = 2.658, CI95 [1.222-5.783], p = 0.014) and school level (OR = 0.489, CI95 [0.253-9.44], p = 0.033). CONCLUSIONS: Risk factors for foot ulceration were rather common in outpatients with diabetes. The screening of patients at risk for foot ulceration should start early, integrated with sustainable patient education.

Assessment of Outcomes of a Metatarsal Bone Ostectomy for Chronic Plantar Ulcers: A Preliminary Study.

BACKGROUND: Clinical management of chronic plantar ulcers is a difficult issue in medical practice. Pressure overloading is a problem that needs to be resolved. Herein, we report a surgical method to reduce plantar pressure: a dorsal approach to a metatarsal ostectomy. METHODS: From March 2011 to October 2016, 16 patients suffering from chronic plantar ulcers underwent ostectomy procedures at Taipei Wan-Fang Municipal Hospital (Taipei Medical University). A bone segment about 0.5 to 1 cm long was removed via a dorsal foot approach. The plantar wound was treated with debridement only or was simultaneously covered with a skin graft. In total, 16 patients with an average age of 57.81 (SD, 11.6) years (12 males and 4 females) were included; 15 patients (93.75%) had a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes for a mean of 20.66 years (range, 5-30 years). The mean glycated hemoglobin was 9.14 g/dL (range, 5.2-13.2 g/dL). The mean plantar wound size was 5.72 cm. Four patients (25%) needed to receive a skin graft with a mean skin graft size of 8.13 cm. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 15.2 months. The plantar wounds completely healed in 14 patients (87.5%) in an average of 2.14 months. No plantar ulcer was complicated with recurrence, but transfer ulcers developed in 2 patients (12.5%) at an average of 7.5 months postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Metatarsal ostectomy surgery via a dorsal foot approach is an efficient way to reduce pressure overloading of chronic plantar wounds. Our study provides an alternative method to treat this difficult problem with a high wound healing rate and less recurrence.

Peripheral Artery Disease: Its Adverse Consequences With and Without CKD.

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVES: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a potent risk factor for macrovascular disease and death. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is more common in patients with CKD and is associated with lower-limb complications and mortality. We sought to compare the prevalence of PAD in and outside the setting of kidney disease and examine how PAD affects the risk for adverse health outcomes, specifically lower-limb complications, cardiovascular events, and survival. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS: 453,573 adult residents of Manitoba with at least 1 serum creatinine measurement between 2007 and 2014. EXPOSURE: PAD defined by hospital discharge diagnosis codes and medical claims. OUTCOMES: All-cause mortality, cardiovascular events, and lower-limb complications, including foot ulcers and nontraumatic amputations. ANALYTICAL APPROACH: Survival analysis using Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS: The prevalence of PAD in our study population was 4.5%, and patients with PAD were older, were more likely to be male, and had a higher burden of comorbid conditions, including diabetes and CKD. PAD was associated with higher risks for all-cause mortality, cardiovascular events, and lower-limb complications in patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60mL/min/1.73m2, those with CKD GFR categories 3 to 5 (G3-G5), and those treated by dialysis (CKD G5D). Although HRs for PAD were lower in the CKD population, event rates were higher as compared with those with eGFR≥60mL/min/1.73m2. In particular, compared with patients with eGFR≥60mL/min/1.73m2 and without PAD, patients with CKD G5D had 10- and 12-fold higher risks for lower-limb complications, respectively (adjusted HRs of 10.36 [95% CI, 8.83-12.16] and 12.02 [95% CI, 9.58-15.08] for those without and with PAD, respectively), and an event rate of 75/1,000 patient-years. LIMITATIONS: Potential undercounting of PAD and complications using administrative codes and the limited ability to examine quality-of-care indicators for PAD. CONCLUSIONS: PAD is more common in patients with CKD G3-G5 and G5D compared with those with eGFR≥60mL/min/1.73m2 and frequently leads to lower-limb complications. Medical interventions and care pathways specifically designed to slow or prevent the development of lower-limb complications in this population are urgently needed.