Saudi Journal of Medicine (SJM)
Volume-3 | Issue-08 | 459-462
Original Research Article
An Overlooked Complication of Diabetes: Diabetic Hand Wounds
Tolga Dinç, Selami Ilgaz Kayılıoğlu, Ufuk Utku Göktuğ, İsa Sözen, Arife Polat-Düzgün, Faruk Coşkun
Published : Aug. 30, 2018
Abstract
Diabetes Mellitus is the most common endocrinological condition. We can see complications as a result of the changes in microcirculation and tissue collagen structure. In our study; we aimed to discuss the clinical features and wound evaluations of the patients who applied to our clinic with diabetic hand wound, as well as their treatments and results. Patients with diabetic hand wounds who applied to our clinic between 2013-2015 were included. Demographic data, type of diabetes, characteristics of hand wounds, laboratory values, culture results, abscess involvement, treatment methods, and treatment results of the patients were obtained. Nine of the 29 patients were female and 20 were male. The mean age was 63.62 ± 14.12. 22 patients had the wound in their right hand while 7 patients had it in the left hand. While 25 patients had finger involvement, 2 had volar part involvement and 2 had wounds in the dorsal part of the hand. 19 patients were treated with debridement and 10 patients were amputated. Flaps / grafts were applied to 5 of the patients. 8 patients had high sedimentation rates. The mean C-reactive protein value was calculated as 43.94. The mean HbA1c of the patients was 8.70 ± 1.74. The wounds of all 29 patients were treated successfully. Patients should be careful while they are using hand tools, cutting nails, and should wear protective equipment. Strict blood glucose control, aggressive debridement, and antibiotics in the treatment of these wounds can reduce the risk of amputation