Diabetics Suffer Unnecessary Limb Amputations

Diabetics are undergoing unnecessary limb amputations due to a lack of adequate specialist care and inadequate patient information, according to a new study.

Researchers at the Wolverhampton Diabetes Center at New Cross Hospital (Wolverhampton, UK) conducted a survey of 30 diabetics aged between 60 and 80, who had undergone amputations. The study found that 90% had been considered high risk in the period leading up to the procedure, but that only 25% had received adequate foot care. However, more than a quarter of those thought to be at high risk of amputation were not being offered any kind of specialist care, and 40% were not being educated on how to prevent and treat infections that can lead to amputation. Over a third did not have any kind of diabetes review to assess how they managed their condition and to ensure they did not develop any other complications prior to amputation becoming a risk. The study was presented at Diabetes UK, an annual professional conference held during March 2006 in Birmingham (UK).

"This research clearly shows that care for high-risk patients is inadequate,” said lead author Dr. Baldev Singh. "Mandatory foot care plans should be put in place to ensure that all people get the right care and education.”

"It is shocking that some people with diabetes are getting sub-standard specialist foot care, or even none at all, if they are at high risk of amputation,” said Douglas Smallwood, chief executive at Diabetes UK (London), the largest diabetics organization in the UK. "We know that the rate of amputation may be reduced by 40% or more through effective care.”

Diabetics are 15 times more at risk of lower limb amputation than people without the condition. A history of ulcers, nerve damage, circulation problems, and foot deformities can all put people with diabetes at high risk of amputation.



Related Links:
Wolverhampton Diabetes Center
Diabetes UK