Diabetic foot ulcer

In this book dealt with Diabetic foot ulcers have substantial economic burden on health care systems. It is estimated that 15% of all diabetic patients will develop a foot ulcer during the course of their lifetime. Diabetic foot ulcers progress to major amputation in 14% to 24% of patients. The five-year mortality rate is also high, reaching 50-68% among patients who undergo major lower limb amputation. Additionally, diabetic foot ulcers markedly increase the morbidity in patients with diabetes, leading to an increase in the number of outpatient appointments and emergency room visits as well as hospitalization days with greater risks of osteomyelitis and amputation. Diabetic foot ulcers negatively affects patients¿ perceived Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) due to decreased mobility and consequently the ability to perform daily activities and increasing dependence on others. Moreover, the perceived stress linked to wound healing or re-ulceration and the fear of foot amputation both increase the negative mood and lead to sleep disturbance in patients with diabetic foot ulcers.