Effect of off-Loading Device in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Healing –A Randomized Control Study.

Abstract

Foot ulcers are the major problems in Diabetic patients. One of the factors which prevent healing of plantar ulcer is pressure on the ulcer. The aim of present study is to find out aoff loading device, which is cheap and comfortable to the patient. 50 ambulant diabetic patients with foot ulcer treated in tertiary care centre, Pondicherry, between October 2010 to March 2012 were included in this study.The patients were randomized into two groups. One was Off- loaded and other Not Off-loaded, by draw of lots. Mandakini device was used for off-loading. Patients were followed up at 2 ,4 and 6 weeks intervals, to assess healing rate of ulcers.Both groups were similar in demographic data and clinical features. In ulcers 11 sq.cm ulcers, the healing rate was 100% in 2 off-loaded patients at 6 weeks.Overall the healing was 100% in 18 (72%) off-loaded patients and 100% in only 7 (28%) not off-loaded patients and the difference was statistically significant (P value- 0.0460).Simple off-loading Mandakini technique improves significantly