Impact on patient quality of life during the treatment of chronic diabetic foot wounds

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a highly prevalent metabolic disease associated with vascular and neuropathic complications that impair wound healing. Among these, diabetic foot stands out as a frequent and severe condition, associated with infections, amputations, and reduced quality of life. Chronic ulcers directly impact physical, emotional, and social aspects, making it essential to assess the effect of treatment on patients’ quality of life. METHOD: Observational, longitudinal study conducted with 31 patients with diabetic foot ulcers treated at a vascular surgery outpatient clinic. Participants were evaluated at three time points (D1, D60, and D120) using the WoundQoL questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: The sample consisted predominantly of male, elderly patients with low educational level; all were diabetic, most were hypertensive and non-smokers. Most lesions were recent and classified as Wagner grade 3. A progressive and statistically significant improvement in quality of life was observed over 120 days. The total Wound-QoL score decreased from 30.50±13.01 at D1 to 14.14±10.32 at D120 (p<0.001), with improvement in physical, psychological, and daily life domains. DISCUSSION: The findings demonstrate that specialized outpatient treatment has a positive impact on quality of life in patients with diabetic foot. The observed improvement highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and continuous follow-up, including clinical control and proper wound management. CONCLUSION: Structured management of diabetic foot is associated with significant improvement in quality of life. Early and multidisciplinary therapeutic strategies are essential to reduce complications and promote functional and overall recovery.