Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFU) Using Percutaneous Ultrasonic Needle Treatment

Details

Activity Description / Statement of Need:

In this online, self-learning activity:

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by chronic hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. While there are many complications resulting from this disease, this CME proposal focuses on treating diabetic foot ulcers that occur in the setting of peripheral neuropathy. Diabetic foot complications are the most common cause of non-traumatic foot injuries leading to amputation, and are also the most frequent reason for hospitalization in patients with diabetes in the United States Diabetic wound care treatments are varied with mixed results, and all current methods require some degree of medium to long-term follow-up and management by an interdisciplinary team which is costly and a significant burden to both the patients and the healthcare system as a whole.

A single treatment with an ultrasonic probe has demonstrated a high rate of complete healing with low recurrence and complication rates. Using these types of devices are relatively inexpensive when compared to more extensive and complex wound care regimens and are easily learned by those experienced in managing this condition. The treatment of diabetic foot ulcers with ultrasonic probes is an evolving standard of care and is becoming an alternative to traditional treatments. This treatment involves fragmenting, emulsifying, and removing thickened scar tissue beneath the wound crater, as well as removing osseous prominences to decrease pressure on the wound bed and promote healing.

There have been recent developments in the available treatments for diabetic foot ulcers. Communicating related information to HCPs, including recent guideline updates, is a demonstrated need.

Target Audience:

The following HCPs who specialize in diabetic care: Endocrinologists, podiatrists, foot and ankle surgeons, primary care physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and wound care RNs.