Expert Vascular Surgeon in Pune | Diabetic Foot Treatment in Pune
Understanding Diabetic Foot
Diabetic foot is a serious complication of diabetes that affects the feet due to poor circulation and nerve damage (neuropathy). Minor cuts, blisters, or sores can easily turn into non-healing wounds or ulcers in diabetic patients, leading to infections and, in severe cases, amputation.
Regular foot care, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment are crucial for preventing serious consequences. At Pune Vascular Centre, we specialize in the diagnosis and advanced treatment of diabetic foot conditions.
Why Does Diabetes Affect the Feet?
- Neuropathy: Damaged nerves reduce sensation, making it difficult to notice injuries.
- Poor Circulation: Diabetes narrows and hardens blood vessels, especially in the legs and feet.
- Weakened Immunity: Reduced ability to fight infection increases the risk of complications.
Symptoms of Diabetic Foot
- Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation
- Persistent foot pain or cramps
- Skin discoloration or temperature changes
- Sores, blisters, or ulcers that don’t heal
- Swelling in the feet or ankles
- Foul odor from wounds
- Black tissue (gangrene) in severe cases
Common Diabetic Foot Conditions
- Diabetic Foot Ulcers:
Open sores caused by pressure, trauma, or ill-fitting footwear. These may become infected and difficult to treat. - Charcot Foot:
A condition where the bones in the foot weaken and fracture, leading to deformity. - Infections:
Skin infections (cellulitis), abscesses, and bone infections (osteomyelitis) are common in diabetic foot cases.
Risks and Complications
If left untreated, diabetic foot issues can lead to:
- Chronic infection
- Gangrene
- Foot or leg amputation
- Loss of mobility
- Life-threatening complications in advanced cases
Diagnosis
Physical Examination – to assess wounds, infection, and circulation
Doppler/ABI Test – to evaluate blood flow in the legs
X-rays/MRI – to check for bone involvement or hidden infections
Wound culture – to identify the infection-causing bacteria
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatments:
- Offloading pressure using special footwear or splints
- Wound cleaning, dressing, and infection control
- Blood sugar management
- Antibiotic therapy
Advanced Interventions:
- Debridement – removal of dead or infected tissue
- Angioplasty or Stenting – to improve blood flow
- Skin Grafting – to cover large or slow-healing wounds
- Surgical Procedures – including reconstructive surgeries or, if necessary, amputation to save the limb
Preventive Foot Care Tips for Diabetics
- Inspect feet daily for cuts, blisters, or redness
- Wear comfortable, diabetic-friendly footwear
- Avoid walking barefoot
- Control blood sugar levels
- Get regular check-ups with a vascular specialist
Expert Diabetic Foot Care in Pune
Dr. Harshwardhan Oak, a leading vascular surgeon in Pune, provides expert diagnosis and personalized care for diabetic foot complications. With advanced treatments and a patient-centric approach, our goal is to heal wounds, improve circulation, and preserve limb function.
Don’t ignore foot pain or wounds. Book your consultation with Dr. Oak today for comprehensive diabetic foot care in Pune.