Evaluation of Combined Surgical and Antibiotic Treatment Outcomes in Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Diabetes is a global health challenge with a growing prevalence, affecting millions worldwide.Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is among its severe complications and significantly contributes to morbidity, particularly in regions with high prevalence, such as Palestine.Despite the high burden of DFUs, limited data exist on treatment outcomes in this region.This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combined surgical and antibiotic treatment for DFUs and to identify key predictors of recovery, including age, outpatient status, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and glycemic control. MATERIALS AND METHODS:A retrospective cross-sectional, exploratory study was conducted at Nablus Specialist Hospital, between 2022 and 2024.The study included 50 diabetic patients with DFUs.Data on demographics, comorbidities, ulcer characteristics, and treatment approaches (surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy) were collected.Outcomes were categorized as improved, cured, or failed, and statistical analyses were performed to identify predictors of success.RESULTS: Younger patients (≤60 years) had higher improvement rates (56%) compared to older patients, though this difference was not statistically significant.Outpatient status was significantly associated with better outcomes (p=0.001);all failed cases occurred among inpatients.PAD significantly affected outcomes (p=0.04);no cured patients had PAD.Ulcer length was shorter in improved and cured cases, although this difference was not statistically significant.Normalization of C-reactive protein levels post-treatment was observed in 78% of cured cases.CONCLUSION: Combined surgical and antibiotic management appears effective in treating DFUs, reducing complications, and preventing amputations.However, given the small sample size and retrospective design, these findings are hypothesis-generating.Prospective studies are needed to confirm these results and to evaluate long-term recurrence.