Description A foot ulcer is an ...
Description
A foot ulcer is an open sore on the foot. The ulcer is often caused by either poor circulation or pressure or a combination of both. Foot ulcers are more common in certain conditions such as diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries) and bony abnormalities like claw feet.
Symptoms
Foot ulcers will appear as a red crater usually on the side or bottom of the foot. If the nerves are functioning normally, the ulcer will be painful. If the ulcer is infected, it will usually ooze and the surrounding skin will appear red. A discharge or foul odor may be noted in ulcers that have an abscess (pocket of pus) associated with them.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed, with a special emphasis on evaluating blood flow and sensation in the feet. Blood tests and a wound culture are common diagnostic tests. Examinations such as an x-ray or MRI may be performed if infection of deeper tissue such as bone is suspected. Tests to assess the blood flow to the affected area may be performed if poor circulation is suspected.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Wound culture, X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Basic metabolic panel, MRI, bone scan, ultrasound, arteriography
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed, with a special emphasis on evaluating blood flow and sensation in the feet. Blood tests and a wound culture are common diagnostic tests. Examinations such as an x-ray or MRI may be performed if infection of deeper tissue such as bone is suspected. Tests to assess the blood flow to the affected area may be performed if poor circulation is suspected.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Wound culture, X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Basic metabolic panel, MRI, bone scan, ultrasound, arteriography
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the cause of the ulcer. If there is good blood supply to the tissue, the doctor may elect to debride (remove the dead tissue adjacent to the ulcer) the wound. A dressing will be applied and the doctor or wound nurse will need to see the ulcer frequently to insure that it is healing. Relief of pressure is important and may be accomplished by bedrest. If there is evidence of infection, antibiotics will be required. Ulcers that do not respond to conservative therapy may require surgery. Resistant ulcers related to poor blood flow can be treated with vascular surgery (surgery on the blood vessels) to improve the blood supply to the affected area.