Identifying Vascular Disease Early Aids Healing

Because the patient's blood supply was adequate (ABI greater than 0.9 mm Hg), the defect had the potential to heal. Vacuum-assisted closure therapy was instituted to accelerate healing, and the wound care team saved the patient's foot.

During the wound care process, the patient learned how to improve control of her diabetes, and she learned the importance of using moisturizer and orthotics and protective footwear to better care for her feet, he said.

An arterial ulcer on the calf of this patient has a “punched out” appearance.

A superinfected venous ulcer became circumferential with the infection.

A diabetic infection requires amputation of two toes, leaving a large cavity. Photos courtesy Dr. Stephan Mostowy