2024 | Roberto Da Ros, Roberta Assaloni, Andrea Michelli, Barbara Brunato, Enrica Barro, Marco Meloni, Cesare Miranda
This study examines the economic burden of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) on hospital admissions and costs at a third-level center in Italy. The research included 422 patients with DFUs treated during 2018. The results show that 58% of patients required hospitalization, while 42% were managed outpatiently. Hospitalization significantly impacted the total costs, accounting for 88% of the overall expenses. Infection and ischemia were the primary causes of hospitalization, with infection prolonging hospital stays and ischemia affecting healing times. The study highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to optimize treatment and reduce costs, emphasizing the need for early intervention and preventive measures to avoid complications such as amputation.This study examines the economic burden of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) on hospital admissions and costs at a third-level center in Italy. The research included 422 patients with DFUs treated during 2018. The results show that 58% of patients required hospitalization, while 42% were managed outpatiently. Hospitalization significantly impacted the total costs, accounting for 88% of the overall expenses. Infection and ischemia were the primary causes of hospitalization, with infection prolonging hospital stays and ischemia affecting healing times. The study highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to optimize treatment and reduce costs, emphasizing the need for early intervention and preventive measures to avoid complications such as amputation.