Update on Medical Management of Diabetes: Focus on Relevance for Orthopedic Surgeons

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus affects more than 30 million US adults and 537 million people worldwide and accounts for major complications, including more than 100,000 lower extremity amputations annually in the United States. Peripheral neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, and foot ulcers are frequent findings in diabetes patients at risk for amputation. Suboptimal care of early foot lesions increases the risk of amputation. Studies have shown that these complications can be prevented in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes by optimizing glycemic control and comorbid risk factors. This review focuses on evaluating and managing diabetes, which should interest orthopedic surgeons.

Keywords: Diabetic foot ulcers; Lower extremity amputations; Microvascular complications; Peripheral vascular disease; Type 1 diabetes; Type 2 diabetes.