[Diabetic foot osteomyelitis]

Abstract

Bone and joint infections associated with chronic wound of the diabetic foot are frequent and severe complications that should be considered in most cases. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are likely to limit bad outcome. Clinical studies with acceptable methodology addressing the relative role of medical and surgical approaches are needed. Bone biopsy available in routine in a diabetic foot clinic represents a marker of good quality of management of such patients. Given the global burden and potential severity of osteomyelitis of the diabetic foot, every measure that can prevent the occurrence and persistence of a foot wound in a diabetic patient remain major objectives.