Is Diabetes Relevant and the Importance of the MDT

Description

In a recent discussion, Dr. Ritwik Banerjee emphasized the increasing global prevalence of diabetes and its alarming consequences, particularly in relation to diabetic foot ulcers and limb amputations. He highlighted how, in the UK alone, there have been approximately 8,000 major amputations related to diabetes within the last four years, raising concerns about the overall mortality and economic burden associated with this chronic condition.



Dr. Banerjee underscored the critical importance of timely intervention for diabetic foot ulcers, which can lead to severe complications if left untreated. He noted that while managing diabetes often involves addressing ailments affecting multiple organs over time, foot ulcers often require immediate attention. He presented data showing that many diabetic patients entering hospitals have underlying diabetes, and their recovery can be heavily influenced by how well their diabetes is managed.



He discussed the significance of Multidisciplinary Teams (MDT) in diabetes care, recalling recommendations from NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) for assembling specialized teams to tackle acute limb crises. The talk detailed the successful establishment of a foot MDT in Luton, highlighting the necessity of involving various healthcare professionals, including podiatrists, vascular surgeons, and orthopedic experts, to facilitate efficient care for these patients.



Overall, Dr. Banerjee's insights showcased both the urgency of addressing diabetic complications and the essential role that structured team approaches play in improving outcomes for individuals suffering from diabetes.

Specialties