Frequency of vascular insufficiency in patients presenting with diabetic foot ulcer.

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of vascular insufficiency in patients presenting with diabetic foot ulcers and analyze associated demographic and clinical factors. Study Design: Cross-sectional Observational Study. Setting: Department of Medicine, Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical Teaching Hospital, Sukkur. Period: October 2023 to March 2024. Methods: Included 122 patients aged 35–75 years, diagnosed with diabetes mellitus for at least one year, and presenting with diabetic foot ulcers. Vascular insufficiency was assessed using Doppler ultrasound and laboratory tests. Results: The prevalence of vascular insufficiency was 17.2%. No significant associations were found with gender (p = 0.524), age (p = 0.204), or duration of diabetes (p = 0.240). Hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and smoking also showed no statistically significant associations. Compared to regional and global studies, the prevalence was slightly lower, potentially due to population-specific characteristics and differences in diagnostic methods. Conclusion: Vascular insufficiency remains a prevalent concern among DFU patients, although the observed frequency was lower than reported in other studies. Early vascular assessment and targeted interventions are critical for improving outcomes and reducing complications in resource-limited settings.