The management of lower-extremity diabetic ulcers.

Lower-extremity ulcers occur in approximately 15% of the estimated 16 million Americans with diabetes. The most important risk factors are neuropathy, ischemia, and poor glycemic control. Early identification of the patient at risk, patient education, and implementation of preventive measures are keys to curtailing morbidity and mortality. Diabetic foot care clinics allow enhanced patient accessibility to health care and improved quality of care. Novel treatment options have expanded the alternatives available to clinicians treating these difficult and prevalent wounds.