LAUSR

Abstract Aims This study elucidates the clinical-surgical features of and treatments for patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Methods Through an observational descriptive cross-sectional study, 44 clinical records of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus between 2012 and 2017 were analyzed. The sociodemographic features, risk factors, related pathologies, diagnostic methods, and infections were compared for patients who received amputation or debridement as treatment. Results Patients with previous amputations, Wagner grade 4 DFUs, and infections are more likely to amputation, while individuals with alcoholism, previous ulcers, and diabetic neuropathy are more likely to receive debridement as treatment. Patients older than 60 years, women, smokers, and alcoholics are more likely to develop either ischemia or infection. Plain radiography detected complications and pathologies such as soft tissue density increase, bone density decrease, and osteolytic and osteoarthritic injuries. Conclusion The analysis of clinical records is a useful method for characterizing and identifying the main risk factors that affect a specific population. Accordingly, health professionals may use the information provided in this study to carry out appropriate systemic metabolic management, prevent unnecessary surgical interventions, and educate patients to adopt safe self-care practices.