What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a retrospective cohort study of 61 adult patients hospitalized with diabetic foot infection at a tertiary referral center over a six-month period in 2013 to analyze their epidemiology, microbiology, and outcomes.
What They Found
Most patients were elderly (67 ± 13 years) with long-standing, poorly controlled diabetes, and 80% had polymicrobial infections, including 39% anaerobic and 61% multi or extensively-drug resistant organisms. Appropriate antimicrobial administration was delayed for over 48 hours in 83% of patients, and advanced age was associated with worse outcomes. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, used in sicker patients, was associated with higher costs and increased functional deterioration without preventing future limb amputation.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients hospitalized with diabetic foot infections may experience polymicrobial infections, including drug-resistant organisms, and potential delays in receiving appropriate antimicrobial treatment. This underscores the importance of prompt and targeted antimicrobial therapy and careful evaluation of advanced treatment options for severe cases.
Canadian Relevance
This study was conducted at a referral center outside of Canada, therefore, direct Canadian relevance is not explicitly established.
Study Limitations
This was a retrospective, single-center study conducted over a six-month period, which may limit the generalizability of its findings.