Introduction
The Diabetes National Service Framework (NSF) states that the NHS should develop,implement and monitor agreed protocols and systems of care to ensure that all people who develop long-term complications of diabetes receive timely, appropriate and effective investigation and treatment to reduce their risk of disability. This, along with surveillance for complications, is very relevant when considering the diabetic foot.
Foot ulceration, foot infection, foot and limb amputation and some forms of deformity are major forms of disability arising from Types 1 and 2 diabetes. In the UK every year 5,000 people with diabetes have an amputation - that’s 100 people every week. More than one in 10 foot ulcers result in an amputation, meaning people with diabetes are 15
per cent more likely to have an amputation than those without.
It is thought that worldwide around half of all foot ulcers and amputations in people with diabetes could be prevented. With this in mind this report aims to be a
comprehensive guide to improving foot care for people with diabetes, looking at screening and prevention, care pathways, multidisciplinary working and workforce and
skills.
Screening and Prevention
Due to the absence of reliable symptoms and the high prevalence of asymptomaticdisease, foot screening is essential according to NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) guidelines...
The Diabetes National Service Framework (NSF) states that the NHS should develop,implement and monitor agreed protocols and systems of care to ensure that all people who develop long-term complications of diabetes receive timely, appropriate and effective investigation and treatment to reduce their risk of disability. This, along with surveillance for complications, is very relevant when considering the diabetic foot.
Foot ulceration, foot infection, foot and limb amputation and some forms of deformity are major forms of disability arising from Types 1 and 2 diabetes. In the UK every year 5,000 people with diabetes have an amputation - that’s 100 people every week. More than one in 10 foot ulcers result in an amputation, meaning people with diabetes are 15
per cent more likely to have an amputation than those without.
It is thought that worldwide around half of all foot ulcers and amputations in people with diabetes could be prevented. With this in mind this report aims to be a
comprehensive guide to improving foot care for people with diabetes, looking at screening and prevention, care pathways, multidisciplinary working and workforce and
skills.
Screening and Prevention
Due to the absence of reliable symptoms and the high prevalence of asymptomaticdisease, foot screening is essential according to NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) guidelines...
