Etiopathophysiology, Novel and Advanced Therapy Options, Management and Care Plan to Prevent Lower Limb Amputations for Diabetic Foot Ulcer

 

Richa Dayaramani1, Nipa Gandhi2, Areeg Anwar Ali Shamsher3, Nour Aymn Ahmad4

1Professor, Silver Oak University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382481.

2Research Scholar, Gujarat Technological University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

3Professor of Pharmacology, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, UAE.

4Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, UAE.

*Corresponding Author E-mail:  richadayaramani1976@gmail.com

 

ABSTRACT:

Diabetes often leads to foot ulcers, which can impose significant challenges on individuals and the healthcare system, particularly when they reoccur or fail to heal. Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are the leading cause of limb loss in diabetic patients, with amputation rates 10-20 times higher than that in non-diabetic individuals. The authors have present a holistic portrayal of diabetic foot ulcer leading to lower limb amputations including the epidemiology, etiopathophysiology in a comprehensive manner.  This presents the severity of the Diabetic Foot Ulcer condition prevailing in communities and how it makes the lives difficult for the patients. The article also reviews the pharmacology based treatment options, technology based therapy along with prevention strategies, and nanotechnology based treatment options and advanced technologies that are currently in use and under development to address the issue better. The authors have extensively reviewed the dressings and wound care techniques, novel therapy, management and care strategies to tackle the issue of DFU and proposed the strategies for better management and care regimes so that the Lower limb amputations can be minimized.

 

KEYWORDS: Diabetic Foot Ulcer, Lower limb amputation, Nano-medicine, Technology based therapy, Management and care.

 


INTRODUCTION: 

Diabetes often leads to foot ulcers, which can impose significant challenges on individuals and the healthcare system, particularly when they reoccur or fail to heal. Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are the leading cause of limb loss in diabetic patients, with amputation rates 10-20 times higher than that in non-diabetic individuals1,2.


 

Table 1:  Demographic incidences of DFU and LLA

 

African countries

South East Asia

Europe

United States

Middle East and North Africa

Brazil

Reference

DFU

10.0% - 30.0%

<15.0%

1.0% - 17.0%

8.0% - 52.0%

5.0% -20.0%

21.0%

3

LLA

3.0% to 35.0%

 

 

 

0.2% to 60.0%

10.0% to 13.0%

 


The demographic incidences of DFU and LLA (Lower Limb Amputation) are summarized in Table 1 indicating that the LLA incidences are reported mainly from the African countries and Brazil. This may be due to low socioeconomic and health conditions and less effective healthcare framework and care models compared to Southeast Asia, Europe, and the US. However, little data is available in the public health domain to better understand prevalence.

 

DFU arises from a multifaceted interplay of factors such as neuropathy, impaired blood flow, and susceptibility to trauma and infection. DFUs not only pose a substantial risk to the patient's quality of life and physical health, often leading to infections and potential limb amputations but also place a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Successful management and prevention of DFUs require an understanding of their pathogenesis, local foot care, adherence to therapy, care practices, and systemic factors making their treatment a multidisciplinary challenge4-7.

 

This comprehensive review delves into the intricate landscape of DFUs, offering an exhaustive exploration of the current and futuristic therapeutic and care management strategies.

 

EPIDEMIOLOGY:

In India, more than 25% of diabetic patients develop DFUs throughout their lives. Approximately 85% of lower extremity amputations are due to infectious DFUs. In India, around one lac amputations are done annually due to non-traumatic diabetic foot complications. There is limited data on the prevalence of DFUs and DFIs among diabetic patients in India. However, studies have shown that one-third of diabetic patients have prevalent peripheral neuropathy, and two-thirds of them are at risk for foot ulcers. Elderly individuals are at a greater risk of developing foot ulcers and are more susceptible to abscesses and osteomyelitis8-11.

 

Diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy are at high risk due to excessive localized pressure and reduced sensitivity to pain with some added risk factors. Neuropathy and ischemia along with other factors like age, sex, foot deformities, nephropathy, retinopathy, co-morbidities, and previous limb amputations are major risk factors for DFUs. Sensory neuropathy is a risk factor for over 75% of patients suffering from DFUs. The American Diabetes Association consensus group reports that approximately 40% of diabetic patients with nephropathy can develop nonvascular DFUs during their life. Infection is considered the major cause of amputation in 90% of patients. Diabetic foot and related sepsis are the second most common form of infection-related mortality (8.3%) in hospitalized patients in India9-11

 

ETIOPATHOPHYSIOLOGY:

Poor glycemic control is an underlying cause of DFU and shares etiology with other inter-connected verticals such as foot traumas, obesity, high planter pressure, calluses formation, foot deformities, improper foot care, barefoot walking, ill-fitting footwear or poor-quality footwear, peripheral neuropathy, vasculopathy, ischemia, dry skin, tobacco consumption, alcohol consumption, eye disease from diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease and immune-suppression.

 

High HbA1c is the initiative factor for a cascade of events that induce neuropathy, vasculopathy, and immune-suppression. Hyperglycemia causes high oxidative stress and damage to nerve cells. Glycosylation of nerve cell proteins due to hyperglycemia results in nerve dysfunctions and ischemia. These cellular changes manifest in sensory neuropathy, motor neuropathy, and autonomic neuropathy.  All these neuropathies result in loss of superficial sensitivity, paraesthesia, loss of proprioception, burning feet syndrome, protrusion of abnormal bones, changes in the normal architecture of the foot (claw toe, hammer toe, hallux rigidus, etc.), dry skin, callus formation, skin fissures, and skin crusts.  Ischemia increases local levels of prostaglandins, bradykinin, and histamine. Resultant metabolic insufficiency leads to further inflammation, ulceration, and infection10,12,13.

 

The factors leading to the development of DFU are represented in Figure 1A and the pathophysiology of DFU is represented in Figure 1B.

 


Figure 1: A. Factors causing the development of DFU B. Pathophysiology of DFU

 


STANDARD CARE PRACTICES FOR DFUs

Pressure Relief aims to alleviate abnormal pressure and shear stress at the ulcer site. Debridement, the removal of necrotic, damaged, or infected tissue, optimizes healing. Surgical debridement, utilizes a scalpel blade to swiftly eliminate nonviable tissue. Mechanical debridement, involves moist dressings, and enzymatic debridement, utilizing chemical agents. Autolytic debridement, harnesses the body's enzymatic processes, and biologic debridement, utilizes sterile maggots, presents alternative approaches with distinct indications and considerations.14

Infection Management is crucial, as more than half of DFUs exhibit signs of infection at presentation. Culturing and treating infected wounds with antibiotics are recommended, with mild to moderate infections targeted by agents focusing on Gram-positive cocci15. Severe infections require broad-spectrum empiric therapy, which is then tailored based on pathogen identification and sensitivities16. Since antibiotics address infection complications and do not directly contribute to wound healing, hence combining antibiotic therapy with other treatment and management aspects is imperative17.

 

Dressings and wound care techniques

Low-cost non-adherent dressings have limitations in managing infected diabetic wounds. They necessitate daily changes and are often recommended in combination with antibiotic treatments to address the challenges posed by infection. Regular wound dressings maintain a humid wound environment, facilitating exudates absorption, preventing infections, and promoting ulcer healing.

 

Hydrocolloids, recognized as the second most popular choice for DFU dressings, are subject to controversy in infected wounds due to their hypoxic and moist nature, which may initiate autolysis of necrotic material. Despite in vitro studies suggesting hydrogels do not support bacterial growth, concerns persist regarding their use in the presence of infections18.

 

Alginates demonstrated to have bacteriostatic properties inhibiting the growth of bacteria involved in DFU infections, are recommended for infected foot ulcers. However, their application requires regular dressing changes, which may elevate the risk of infection. Silver-impregnated dressings emerge as more effective in controlling the microbiological burden of wounds, promoting tissue granulation. However, the absence of randomized controlled trials for silver-impregnated dressings in DFUs underscores the need for further research to validate their efficacy19-20.

 

Foam dressings, particularly those with bactericidal silver, have demonstrated the ability to prevent infections with daily changes. Their superior absorbency, exemplified by innovations like Biatain Ag, makes them cost-effective and efficient in managing infected wounds21, 22. Iodine-based dressings face concerns about their toxicity to fibroblasts and keratinocytes, limiting their advisability for wound treatment in DFUs. However, clinical studies suggest that iodine-based dressings, while not universally recommended, may show effectiveness in specific cases23.

 

Collagen dressings, known for reducing collagenase-like activity and promoting tissue healing, have shown promise in cases of neuro-ischaemic DFUs. It is reported that collagen implants impregnated with gentamicin sulfate contribute to granulation tissue formation, microcirculation improvement, and reduced bacterial load24-25.

 

Recombinant human growth factors, such as Heberprot-P and Becaplermin gel, address the decreased growth factor concentrations in diabetic tissues, enhancing wound healing by encouraging tissue growth and cell proliferation.26

Dakin solution and honey dressing, though backed by some clinical studies, require further analysis to determine their efficacy in treating DFUs. The meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies indicates that the use of honey dressing was associated with shortened wound debridement time, accelerated wound healing, faster bacterial clearance, and increased rates of wound healing and bacterial clearance during the initial one to two weeks of application27-28.

 

CHALLENGES IN TREATMENT

Antibiotic resistance and infection control

Antibiotic resistance and infection control pose complications affecting around 15% of individuals with diabetes. DFU patients are predominant in the elderly, with an average age of 60.2 ± 10.1 years, and often have a prolonged history of diabetes29. The prevalence of pathogens on foot ulcers varies, with some studies reporting a dominance of gram-positive (GP) bacteria over gram-negative (GN), while others observe a shift where GN bacteria replace GP bacteria as the primary pathogens. This changing trend in infective organisms, particularly in developing countries, underscores the complexity of DFU infections30. Climate differences explain geographic variations in bacterial infections on foot ulcers, with an increase in temperature and humidity correlating with a higher proportion of GN bacteria on DFUs31.

 

A study reveals that multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) account for approximately one-fifth of the isolated pathogens, with about one-third of MDRO being Staphylococcus aureus. The prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization among diabetic patients has been reported to be 4.75% higher than in non-diabetics, although recent studies suggest a potential decrease in MRSA prevalence globally. These superbugs, resistant to all available antibiotics compounded by biofilm formation on DFUs contribute to antibiotic resistance. Effective debridement is highlighted as crucial for biofilm removal in DFU treatment. Emerging treatments such as recurrent autologous platelet-rich gel (APG), negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), and S. nux-vomica–ZnO nanocomposite are proposed as potential strategies for managing multidrug-resistant bacteria in DFU patients32.

 

Fungal infections particularly Candida infection vary globally, with reported rates of 7% in Kuwait and 4.3% in Croatia. Recent studies utilizing high-throughput sequencing suggest that up to 80% of non-healing DFUs may contain fungi, with Cladosporidium herbarum and Candida albicans being the most abundant species.

The latest research findings underscore the persistent challenges posed by the recurrence and chronicity of ulcers in DFU treatment and highlight the need for further research and the development of targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes33.

 

ADVANCES IN PHARMACOTHERAPY: NOVEL AGENTS AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS

Ciprofloxacin-loaded calcium alginate wafer is reported to inhibit and prevent re-infection caused by both GP and GN bacteria. The wafer also showed biocompatibility with human adult keratinocytes34.

 

Deferoxamine (DFO) induces hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) accumulation under normoxia, which mediates various processes, including cell metabolism, proliferation, survival, and angiogenesis. It increases neovascularization through the upregulation of HIF-1α and target genes, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stromal cell-derived factor-1α (SDF-1α). The administration of DFO to diabetic wounds has been shown to improve wound healing, along with enhanced granulation tissue formation, re-epithelization, and neovascularization35, 36.  

 

An emerging drug treatment is WF10, an aqueous solution of the chlorite drug OXO-K99, having anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that boost the phagocytic activity of macrophages through the myeloperoxidase–hydrogen peroxide–halide system. It stimulates keratinocytes to produce laminin and other constituents of the normal basement membrane, which can help in the healing of DFUs37.

 

Nitroglycerine (Isosorbide Dinitrate),is an effective donor of nitric oxide (NO) to diabetic wounds, leading to increased blood flow and biochemical activity of the ulcers and facilitating wound healing38

 

Pirfenidone (PFD) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and reduces secreted and cell-associated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels. In a randomized double-blind trial, the efficacy of topical PFD + M-DDO (an antimicrobial and antiseptic agent) versus ketanserin, a serotonin antagonist of 5-HTR2, with no agonistic properties, was evaluated in the treatment of non-infected chronic DFUs. Patients receiving PFD treatment had improved levels of TGF-β1, which promotes the differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts and cell proliferation and stimulates keratinocytes to produce laminin and other constituents of the normal basement membrane39.

 

Polymers like gelatin microspheres carrying FGFb and curcumin have reduced infection rates and improved wound closure rates40.

Silver nanoparticles exhibit antimicrobial properties by disrupting the respiratory chain at the cytochromes, and their anti-inflammatory characteristics aid in wound healing by reducing cytokine release and diminishing lymphocyte and mast cell infiltration. They expedite wound healing through dermal contraction and epidermal re-epithelialization with low systemic toxicity, although confirmation is needed regarding their cytotoxicity on fibroblasts and keratinocytes41, 42

 

NO-releasing nanoparticles play a vital role in wound oxygenation for faster healing and preventing DFU-related amputations. Increased levels of nitric oxide (NO) in foot ulcers contribute to healing by regulating re-epithelialization, angiogenesis, fibroblast and collagen synthesis, and enhancing inflammatory cells' growth factor, blood flow, and circulation. However further research on cell cytotoxicity is essential for evaluating their efficient usage in clinical settings43, 44

 

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), in vitro and in vivo studies revealed their anti-diabetic effects, improving glucose tolerance, insulin levels, and superoxide dismutase activity. ZnO NPs demonstrate promise as an anti-diabetic agent, warranting further investigation. Bandages with ZnO exhibit reduced bacterial cell viability without causing cell toxicity45, 46.

 

Electrospun polymeric nanofibrous meshes show promise in wound dressing materials for DFU treatment. Recognizing the optimal moist wound environment for healing, these nanofibrous meshes prevent microbial infiltration, maintain moisture balance, and allow gas exchange. Soft, cost-effective, and easily handled, these nanofibers promote cell respiration, skin regeneration, moisture retention, and support tissue formation, offering potential solutions for chronic wounds like DFU47.  

 

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE APPROACHES: GROWTH FACTORS AND PROTEINS, STEM CELL THERAPY

Growth factors

Growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB), fibroblast growth factor β (FGFb), epidermal growth factor (EGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) have been studied for their efficacy in promoting the healing of DFUs48.

 

Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)is approved by the FDA for the treatment of neuropathic ulcers when there is a lack of response to standard wound care49.  

 

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) shows promising results in the formation of granulation tissue and the prevention of amputation in patients. Intra-lesion injection of recombinant EGF directly at the wound site demonstrated a greater pharmacodynamic response in terms of granulation tissue growth and wound closure50.  

 

A double-blind study compared the efficacy of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor(VEGF) against a placebo in the treatment of DFUs. The study reported a more significant DFU reduction (60%) in patients treated with VEGF than in those treated with a placebo. VEGF in combination with other growth factors and molecules enhances its therapeutic potential. For example, a study hypothesized that local sustained release of VEGF using an adenovirus vector (ADV)-mediated gene therapy approach could improve the healing of DFUs. Another study investigated the role of VEGF, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the treatment of DFUs after platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and hyaluronic therapy51, 52

 

Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor (G-CSF) emerges as a promising therapy for diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) reducing surgical interventions, especially amputations, and shortening hospitalization duration. Further research and clinical trials are imperative to establish G-CSF's widespread applicability and optimize its therapeutic potential when combined with other growth factors and molecules53.

 

Biological Peptides

Alpha Connexin Carboxy-Terminal (ACT1) is a peptide displaying potential in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). It specifically targets connexin43 (Cx43), a gap-junctional protein crucial in dermal wound healing. Studies indicate that focusing on Cx43 can expedite the healing process of chronic neuropathic DFUs. In a prospective, randomized, multicenter clinical trial, the incorporation of ACT1 into standard wound care demonstrated enhanced healing for chronic neuropathic DFUs, leading to accelerated complete reepithelization and reduced healing time. Additionally, ACT1 has been incorporated into hydroxyethyl cellulose gels like Granexin® for diabetic wound treatment. Further research is necessary to establish the safety and effectiveness of ACT1 in DFU management54

 

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have a broad spectrum of activity, comprising antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and antitumor activity. AMPs are being explored for their use as monotherapy for infection management, in combination with conventional antibiotics for synergistic purposes, as immunomodulators, and as neutralizing endotoxins55.

Human LL-37 cathelicidin, a powerful endogenous peptide, has shown promise in improving re-epithelialization and granulated tissue development in diabetic wounds56.

 

IDR-1018 has been shown to stimulate the healing of non-diabetic murine and porcine-infected wounds with S. aureus while Pexiganan (MSI-78) has been internationally accepted for the topical treatment of mild-to-moderate DFUs. Furthermore, a multi-center, double-blind clinical trial confirmed the effectiveness of the antimicrobial peptide SR-0379 in closing diabetic wounds57.  

 

Stem cells and gene therapy

Placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells have proven to be particularly successful in the treatment of DFU due to their ability to produce and release a variety of regenerative growth factors that promote wound healing. Autologous stem cell therapy (ASCT) has shown positive benefits in wound healing, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in a collagen matrix have been found to significantly improve DFU healing in the preclinical model. Adipose stem cell sheets and stem cell secretome have also been shown to accelerate diabetic ulcer healing by upregulating local growth factors58, 59.

 

Recent meta-analyses have reported that stem cells have better efficacy in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers compared to traditional treatments, although high-quality clinical studies are still needed to explore the specific therapeutic effects of different types of stem cells.

 

Other emerging therapies and innovations for DFU treatment include fibroblast cultures, grafting, bovine fluid collagen, acellular dermal matrix, and human amniotic membrane. These approaches have shown promise in improving DFU treatments and promoting wound healing. Here is a brief overview of each of the mentioned therapies:

·      Human Amniotic Membrane: The human amniotic membrane is already used as a wound covering for more than 100 years and produces biologically activated cells and powerful regenerative molecules together with structural support for the extracellular matrix (ECM) 60

·      Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM): ADM, commercially known as Dermacell, is practiced for many years for wound healing, tissue repairing, and reconstruction. The dermis of the decellularized donor retains bioactive agents and acts as a scaffold for the repopulation of the host cell61.

·      Bovine Fluid Collagen: Bovine fluid collagen fluid that contains fibrillar collagen (non-cross-linked collagen) and is the most advanced wound care matrix62.  

·      Grafting (Bioengineering): Grafting can be used to reconstruct skin defects at higher activation rates, but its application is restricted to external injuries that barely affects the skin and not the soft tissues, muscles, joints, or bones63.

·      Fibroblast Cultures: Fibroblast cultures employ dermal fibroblasts, secretory collagen, matrix proteins, growth factors, and cytokines capable of generating a three-dimensional dermis substituted as a graft. An analysis of fibroblasts/keratinocytes (Apligraf®, Graftskin®) reported satisfactory results64.

 

TECHNOLOGY-BASED TREATMENT STRATEGIES

Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

PDT involves the topical application of a photosensitizer into the tissue, followed by illumination that induces the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).PDT provides bacterial inactivation and promotes wound healing. Studies have shown that PDT with RLP068, an antimicrobial photosensitizer, reduces the microbial load of diabetic ulcers in patients with DFU65, 66.

 

Another study evaluated the safety and efficacy of 5-aminolevulinic acid PDT (ALA-PDT) in the treatment of DFUs and found it to be effective and safe67

 

However, further research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety in clinical settings.

 

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)

Luinio Tongson et al. demonstrated an 88% improvement in foot ulcers of diabetic patients with Wagner grade 2 and 3 wounds who had undergone HBOT treatment, with only 12% undergoing major amputation68. A 2018 study reported that HBOT was effective in treating 74.2% of diabetic foot ulcer cases, dramatically improving the foot. Additionally, a 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis found that HBOT can help reduce serious adverse events, such as amputation and wound infection, and improve the quality of life. HBOT is an effective treatment option for the management of DFU and it is approved by the FDA for treating non-healing wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers. It involves a person entering a pressurized room and breathing almost pure oxygen, which increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, boosting the oxygen flow to the wound, thus promoting healing69

 

Vacuum Assisted Closure (VAC) therapy

VAC is a device used for promoting wound healing through Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT). A randomized clinical trial study on partial foot amputation wounds up to the transmetatarsal level and evidence of adequate perfusion showed 56% of wounds healing in VAC treated group compared to 39% in the conventional therapy group. The median time for complete closure of the wound was 56 days in the VAC-treated group compared to 77 days in the conventionally treated group70. Another multicenter randomized controlled study in stage II or III on DFU patients showed that VAC therapy induces a complete closure of the wound in comparison with moist wound therapy. VAC devices are designed to clean wounds and, at the same time, provide an opportunity for deep wounds to fill in with healthy tissue71.

 

Telemedicine and remote monitoring

Telemedicine and remote monitoring technologies enable early detection and management of chronic conditions such as DFU, reducing the physical burden on patients and improving overall quality of life. It effectively reduces physical hospital visits and outpatient consultations, particularly benefiting patients in remote areas. Enhanced communication among different levels of care increases the efficiency of diabetic foot care management providing regular clinical follow-up and improving patient outcomes72. A randomized controlled trial comparing tele-medical and standard outpatient monitoring of DFUs demonstrated the potential benefits of telemedicine in reducing hospital stays and costs, further supporting its effectiveness in the management of DFU73.

 

Super oxidized solution (SOS)

As a safe and effective in treating infected DFU in humans and animals, SOS exhibits antimicrobial activity against antibiotic-resistant strains. In a 20-week study, SOS treatment significantly reduced cellulitis by 81%, surpassing the control group at 44%. Additionally, SOS-treated patients showed a 100% reduction in odor compared to the control group's 25%. Studies indicate better outcomes, faster healing times, and reduced bacterial strains compared to traditional treatments, making SOS therapy a valuable option for DFU healing and amputation prevention74.

 

Smart dressings and bandages

Incorporating wireless technology and sensors, smart dressings enable real-time monitoring of wounds, providing comprehensive insights into the healing process. Smart dressings use optimal material combinations in a specific multi-layered design, effectively manage exudates, and promote re-epithelialization while maintaining an ideal moisture environment. Composites of natural and synthetic polymers can mimic extracellular matrix (ECM) composition. Researchers at the University of Nottingham have received a major grant to develop a smart wound dressing integrating optical fiber sensors. This innovation will remotely monitor humidity and pH levels, contributing to a holistic understanding of the healing process. Enhanced wound monitoring has the potential to significantly decrease the 7,000 lower limb amputations associated with DFU. In essence, smart dressings and bandages represent a noteworthy advancement in chronic wound care, particularly for diabetic foot ulcers, providing valuable solutions to enhance patient outcomes and alleviate the strain on healthcare systems75

 

Ozone therapy

Ozone therapy is considered for DFU treatment due to the lack of oxygenation in the injuries. It can be administered in various forms, such as ozonized oils (e.g., sunflower or olive oil) or a mixture of oxygen and ozone directly applied to the wound. Ozone exhibits antimicrobial activities and can activate endogenous growth factors, supporting wound healing. However, excessive application of ozone therapy can lead to unfavorable effects, as reported in clinical cases and more research is needed to precisely define the success rate of ozone therapy76, 77.

 

PREVENTION STRATEGIES

Importance of Early Detection and Proactive Care

Early detection and proactive care are key preventive strategies improving patient well-being, and being cost-effective. Strategies, including patient education and innovative technologies, increase awareness and enable timely intervention, reducing the risk of complications and amputations.

 

Early detection strategies to prevent DFUs involve various interventions and technologies aimed at identifying individuals at risk and implementing timely preventive measures.

·       Sensor-Equipped Devices: Research has explored the use of sensor-equipped devices, such as a device consisting of a sensor array for plantar pressure, temperature, and photoplethysmography (PPG), to enable early detection of DFU. These devices can help in the early identification of foot complications due to diabetes, such as neuropathy, and facilitate timely intervention to prevent ulceration78.

·       Multi-Intervention Approaches: A multi-intervention review highlighted the importance of multiple elements, including the identification of feet at risk, regular examinations, and patient education, in preventing foot ulceration among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This comprehensive approach aims to overcome the severity and prevent new wounds through early detection interventions79

·       Telemedicine and Remote Monitoring: The use of telemedicine combined with sensor-equipped insoles and photo documentation is proposed as a preventive strategy for diabetic foot ulceration. It aims early detection of foot ulcers through remote monitoring to avoid or delay the progression of ulcers into more severe stages, ultimately preventing the need for limb amputation or infectious sequels80

 

Additionally, DFU prevention programs incorporating foot temperature monitoring may lower foot ulcer recurrence rates in high-risk patients. Automated home foot temperature monitoring is needed to improve self-care and patient active participation. Frykberg et al. developed a wireless thermometric foot mat called Podimetrics mat in 2017 to encourage daily foot-temperature monitoring in patients with diabetes and prior DFU. This method accurately measures temperature over the range of 15 to 40 ◦C and transmits data securely to an approved server. Continuous and simultaneous measurement of temperature and pressure may assist in determining digital biomarkers of DFU, such as thermal stress response, which is associated with shear and vascular health and maybe a strong predictor of foot complications like acute Charcot foot81

 

Patient Education Programs and Self-Care Practices

Patient education programs and self-care practices help patients conduct foot self-examinations, identify risk factors, and provide appropriate self-care for feet with any signs of pre-ulceration. They are advised to avoid walking barefoot and wearing sandals, which can expose their feet to injuries. Being overweight or obese can also increase the risk of DFUs. Smoking cessation is recommended as tobacco products contain chemicals that slow healing and may prevent a full recovery from a foot ulcer. Additionally, for diabetic people with peripheral neuropathy, it is essential to conduct regular foot examinations82. Regular foot screening and follow-up have significantly decreased the incidence of DFUs and amputation rates.

 

Role of Multidisciplinary Teams in Prevention

Multidisciplinary teams offer collaborative and specialized care. These teams, composed of healthcare professionals from various disciplines, work together to address the complex needs of patients with diabetes. Collaborative care ensures that patients receive comprehensive and tailored treatment. Studies indicate that this approach can significantly reduce the occurrence of diabetic foot ulcerations and lower extremity amputations, attributed to the holistic care provided by the team. Podiatrists, considered "gatekeepers" in the multidisciplinary approach, focus on preventive screening, education, offloading, and foot care. Additionally, addressing comorbidities associated with diabetes, such as peripheral neuropathy, is strength of multidisciplinary teams, contributing to improved ulcer healing and reduced care gaps83.


Table 2: Reported Nanotechnology based medicines for treatment of DFU

Sr. No.

Active Ingredient

Carrier Molecule

Formulation

Ref

1

Quercetin and oleic acid

-

Nano-Hydrogel

84

2

Sesamol

PLGA

Nanosuspension

85

3

Chitosan -Alginate

-

Nanoparticles

86

4

Ferulic acid 

PLGA

Nanoparticle

87

5

Deferoxamine 

Chitosan, sodium alginate, and polyvinyl alcohol 

Nanofiber

88

6

Aloe Vera

Polyethylene glycol 400 and Tween 80

Nanoemulsion

89

7

Naringenin

Capryol 90 and tocotrienols, Solutol HS15, and Transcutol P 

Nanoemulgel

90

8

Lignosus Rhinocerotis

AuNPs/PF127

Nanoparticles

91

9

Citicoline

Chitosan-coated

Liposomes

92

10

Venlafaxinand Doxycycline

Bacterial cellulose

Nanofiber

93

11

Asiaticoside

Polyvinyl alcohol-silk fibroin -sodium alginate

Nanofiber

94

12

Curcumin

Iron Oxide

Nanoparticle

95

13

Naringenin and Ferulic Acid

Beeswax-based nanostructured lipid carriers 

Nanoparticle

96

14

Essential oil incorporated in SLN and NLC

Nanoparticles made up of lecithin, cocoa butter, olive oil/sesame oilloaded witheucalyptus or rosemaryessential oils as therapeutic agents for DFUs

Nanoparticles

97

15

Chitosan bandages

using fibrin nanoparticles

Chitosan (CH) bandages

using fibrin nanoparticles (FNPs) encapsulated with antimicrobial agents, such as ciprofloxacin and fluconazole

Nanoparticles

98

16

Clindamycin- Ceria Nanoparticles

ROS responsive Clindamycin conjugated Nanoparticles to combat DFU

Nanoparticles

99

17

Berberine

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), sodium alginate (Alg) based nano-colloids hydrogel

Nano-colloids hydrogel

100

18

Resveratrol

Composite hydrogel containing Resveratrol-laden nanoparticles and platelet-derived extracellular vesicles

Composite hydrogel

101

 


A comprehensive management approach includes various elements such as DFU education, blood glucose control, PAD management, regular foot inspection, and long-term use of appropriate shoes. Overall, the involvement of multidisciplinary teams is essential in providing integrated care, addressing co-morbidities, and reducing the overall incidence of DFUs and amputations.

 

The table below enlists various nanotechnology-based research strategies for the healing of DFUs.

 

CONCLUSION:

Challenges in DFU treatment include antibiotic resistance, infection control, recurrence, chronicity of ulcers, and patient compliance barriers. Emerging therapies such as regenerative medicine approaches and technology-based interventions show promise in the management of DFUs. Prevention strategies emphasize the importance of early detection, patient education, self-care practices, and multidisciplinary teamwork. Future research and treatment directions focus on novel therapeutic development with drug candidates, personalized medicine, and global health initiatives. In the technology era, treatment and management of DFU can be conveniently done by technology assisted therapy options. The conclusion of the review article highlights the multifactorial nature of DFUs and the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying pathophysiology, early diagnosis, effective management strategies, and preventive measures. It also emphasizes the potential of emerging therapies and the importance of ongoing research to improve the outcomes for patients with DFUs. We find immense research opportunities in the treatment and mitigation of DFU to minimize LLA.

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

The authors are thankful to the authorities of their respective affiliation universities namely Silver Oak University, India and RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, UAE for their support in terms of infrastructure.

 

CONFLICT OF INTEREST:

None.

 

REFERENCES:

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Received on 20.05.2024            Modified on 09.08.2024

Accepted on 01.10.2024           © RJPT All right reserved

Research J. Pharm. and Tech 2024; 17(10):5141-5153.

DOI: 10.52711/0974-360X.2024.00788