Impact of Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques on Healing Time in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Abstract

Background: Diabetic foot ulcers represent a frequent and grave complication of diabetes mellitus, frequently resulting in extended hospitalization, secondary infections, and limb loss. Recent surgical innovations have developed techniques which are less invasive in nature with the intent to improve healing outcomes while reducing complications.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of minimally invasive surgical techniques on healing time and related outcomes in patients with diabetic foot ulcers.

Methods: This comparative study was carried out at the Department of General Surgery, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, between January 2023 and January 2024. Out of the total 71 patients diagnosed with diabetic foot ulcers, two cohorts were formed: the first cohort received minimally invasive surgical treatment, whereas the latter underwent conventional open surgery. Information was gathered on the healing time, reduction of ulcer size, infection rate, duration of hospital stay, and overall satisfaction among patients. Data was analyzed statistically with SPSS version 25, using a significance threshold of p < 0.05.

Results: Patients treated with minimally invasive procedures had significantly shorter healing times (mean 5.4 weeks vs. 7.6 weeks, p < 0.001) and lower infection rates (14.3% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.042) compared to the conventional group. They also experienced shorter hospital stays and higher satisfaction levels. Although re-ulceration was less frequent in the minimally invasive group, the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Minimally invasive surgical techniques are effective in promoting faster healing and reducing infection risk in diabetic foot ulcers. These approaches offer a patient-friendly and efficient alternative to conventional surgery, particularly in healthcare settings aiming to improve surgical outcomes and resource utilization.