DIABETES MELLITUS

Impaired wound healing in patients with diabetes has been well established. Wound repair in patients with diabetes mellitus is characterised by reduced collagen synthesis and deposition, decreased wound-breaking strength, defective granulocytic function, reduced capillary in-growth and impaired leucocyte function (Vuolo, 2009).

Patients with diabetes are also at increased risk of infection, which can then be difficult to manage. They have a higher risk of developing neuropathy, arteriosclerosis and PVD, which can lead to diabetic ulceration and amputation (see Module 4, Diabetic Foot Ulcers Section).