Treatment of Foot Ulcers

Hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics for up to 28 days may be needed for severe foot ulcers in diabetic patients. In one study, intravenous therapy using ofloxacin or penicillin for only seven days followed by an oral antibiotic was adequate treatment. A number of treatments (Dermagraft, Apligraf, Regranex) are now available that stimulate new cell growth and help heal skin ulcers or use cultures of human skin cells, although their benefits are still unproven. Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, or G-CSF (filgrastim, Neupogen, Amgen) is showing promise as an effective alternative to antibiotics.

One study showed that G-CSF accelerated healing and significantly reduced the need for surgery. One study indicated that administering hyperbaric oxygen (given at high pressure) promoted healing and helped prevent amputation. There was no follow-up however, and more research is needed.

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