Retrospective cohort study of type 2 diabetes effects on chronic wound healing in dermatology clinics

Chronic Wounds are one of the most prevalent types of Dermatoses, which are the result of impaired Healing and Complications. In addition, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is one of the main causes of impaired Healing (due to the development of Complications and other factors). Therefore, it is of interest to evaluate the way T2DM influences Healing, Recurrence and Clinical Outcomes (in Dermatology Clinics) over a period of five years. A retrospective review of medical records (of chronic wound patients) identified differences between the T2DM and the Non-Diabetic Groups. The T2DM patients demonstrated a significantly longer median Healing Time than the Non-Diabetic Patients, with increased Infection Rates and an increased need for Advanced Wound Care. The rate of Recurrence and Amputation were also higher than in the Non-Diabetic Group. A Multivariate Analysis indicated that T2DM, Baseline Wound Infection and Wound Size >10 cm² were significant predictors of Delayed Healing for T2DM Patients. Thus, these data demonstrate that T2DM places a significant burden on Wound Outcomes in a Dermatology Practice. Early identification of risk factors, multidisciplinary management and optimised glycaemic control are crucial to improving Healing and reducing complications associated with Chronic Wounds and T2DM.