Pathophysiology of the Diabetic Foot

The clinical manifestations of diabetes are evident in the foot. Peripheral neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, dermatologic alterations, and musculoskeletal changes place the foot at high risk of ulceration. The diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is the end result of these pathophysiologic changes, which increases the likelihood of infection, hospitalization, and amputation. There are treatment options available, but DFU imparts a tremendous toll on the patient’s quality of life and healthcare resources. Although there is a growing understanding of the pathophysiologic processes unique to the diabetic foot, much work is still needed. This chapter focuses on the assessment and management of the diabetic foot and its associated conditions.  This review contains 7 figures, 3 tables and 62 references Key Words:: Diabetic foot, Diabetic Foot Ulcer, Peripheral Neuropathy, Peripheral Vascular Disease, Foot Wound, Biomechanics, Deformity, Biomechanical Surgery, Infection