Question

A 70-year-old woman with long-standing type 2 diabetes and hypertension presents with an infected plantar ulcer on her foot. There is surrounding erythema and warmth but no systemic signs of sepsis. Which management principle is most important to reduce risk of amputation?

Accepted Answer

Arrange off-loading of the affected foot and comprehensive multidisciplinary diabetic foot care, including vascular assessment and systemic antibiotics when indicated

Answer

Rely solely on topical antibiotics

Answer

Advise continued full weight-bearing to maintain mobility

Answer

Delay vascular assessment until after ulcer heals

Answer

Use high-dose systemic steroids to reduce inflammation

Practice question

A 70-year-old woman with long-standing type 2 diabetes and hypertension presents with an infected plantar ulcer on her foot. There is surrounding erythema and warmth but no systemic signs of sepsis. Which management principle is most important to reduce risk of amputation?