CLINICAL PROFILE AND POSTOPERATIVE OUTCOME OF PATIENTS WITH DIABETIC FOOT ULCERS UNDERGOING SURGICAL MANAGEMENT: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Diabetic foot ulcer is one of the most common and serious complications of diabetes mellitus and is 
associated with significant morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, repeated surgical procedures, and lower limb amputation. 
Early surgical intervention, infection control, and strict glycemic management are important for limb salvage and 
improved outcome.
Aim: To evaluate the clinical profile, bacteriological pattern, surgical management, and postoperative outcome in patients 
with diabetic foot ulcers.
Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery during 
2018 among 130 patients with diabetic foot ulcers admitted for surgical management. Clinical presentation, Wagner 
grading, bacteriological profile, type of surgical intervention, postoperative complications, and outcome were evaluated. 
Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square test and independent t-test. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered 
statistically significant.