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. 2012 Jul;55(7):1869-72.
doi: 10.1007/s00125-012-2588-z. Epub 2012 May 24.

Reducing lower leg amputations in diabetes: a challenge for patients, healthcare providers and the healthcare system

N C Schaper  1 , J Apelqvist, K Bakker
Affiliations

Reducing lower leg amputations in diabetes: a challenge for patients, healthcare providers and the healthcare system

N C Schaper et al. Diabetologia. 2012 Jul.

Abstract

Amputation of the lower limb is one of the most feared diabetic complications. It is associated with loss of mobility and a poor quality of life. Amputations result in high economic burden for the healthcare system. The financial cost is also high for patients and their families, particularly in countries that lack a comprehensive health service and/or have a low income. Losing a leg frequently implies financial ruin for a whole family in these countries; therefore, a reduction in diabetes-related amputations is a major global priority. Marked geographical variation in amputation rates has been reported within specific regions of an individual country and between countries. A coordinated healthcare system with a multidisciplinary approach is essential if the number of amputations is to be reduced. This commentary discusses how studies on the variation in amputation rates can help to identify barriers in the access or delivery of care with the aim of reducing the burden of diabetic foot disease.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The outcome of diabetic foot ulcers is determined by patient and ulcer characteristics, by the local healthcare organisation and availability of resources, by the management strategies used and the attitudes of the care providers and patients. The outcome can be described in clinical terms, such as healing or amputation, in terms of quality of life or in terms of use of resources
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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