Diabetic Ulcer Treatment in Mumbai

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open wound or sore that usually develops on the foot, most commonly on the sole. In patients with diabetes, even minor injuries such as dry skin, calluses, or ingrown toenails can progress into serious infections if not treated on time.

Early evaluation and timely surgical management by a Plastic Surgeon in Mumbai can help prevent infection, avoid amputation, and restore normal walking.

Who can get a diabetic foot ulcer?

Diabetic foot ulcers are more common in patients with long-standing or poorly controlled diabetes, especially those on insulin therapy. Individuals with diabetes-related complications such as high cholesterol, heart disease, obesity, and tobacco or alcohol use are at a higher risk of developing foot ulcers.

Diabetic foot ulcers are largely preventable when simple daily precautions are followed:

• Daily inspection of feet for cuts, cracks, or wounds

• Maintaining good blood sugar control

“Most amputations can be prevented if diabetic foot wounds are identified and treated early.”
— Dr. Leena Jain, Plastic Surgeon in Bandra

The primary goal of diabetic ulcer treatment is to control infection, promote wound healing, and prevent recurrence. Management requires a combination of medical care and surgical intervention depending on the severity of the ulcer.

The primary treatment includes,

• Control of blood sugar levels and associated medical conditions to support wound healing and prevent progression.

• Evaluation by a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon to plan appropriate wound care and surgical management.

• Targeted medical treatment with antibiotics for infection, cellulitis, and deeper tissue involvement.

• Surgical cleaning of the ulcer (Debridement) by removing dead tissue, thickened skin, pus, and unhealthy tissue.

• Advanced wound dressing and ongoing care to keep the ulcer protected, moist, and infection-free.

• Assessment of blood circulation, nerve sensation, and bone involvement using Doppler scans, imaging, and clinical evaluation.

Surgical treatment is essential and includes –

Debridement:

• To remove the infected, unhealthy soft tissue and dead bone
• Repeat debridement to assess control of infection.
• To perform reconstructive surgery to cover the raw areas with healthy vascularised tissue (flaps) or skin grafts to bring about healing of ulcers
• To perform reconstructive surgeries for bony loss.

“The aim of surgery is not just wound closure, but durable healing that allows patients to walk confidently again.”
— Dr. Leena Jain, a leadning Plastic Surgeon in Mumbai

How to Reduce the Risk of Diabetic Foot Ulcers:

• To reduce pressure on the ulcerated area by excision of bones or shaving of bones
• To correct foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, bony bumps, etc
• To stabilize the condition of Charcot’s Foot
• To perform an endovascular surgery with the placement of stents or an arterial bypass to treat peripheral vascular conditions
• To perform an amputation of the lower limb, i.e., from the toe or the foot, either to the knee or above the knee, as required in cases of rapidly spreading infection or very poor blood supply in the lower limbs.

Debridement for infected wounds:

Debridement is a surgical procedure performed to remove all the accumulated dead tissues, pus, dry skin, and old blood in the wound. It is done under general anesthesia or by localized anesthesia in the wound area. The cleaned wound is then dressed, and plaster is also applied to maintain joint health. If required, the debridement procedure is repeated after two or three days to assess the condition of the wound and facilitate the production of enzymes and proteins required for healing.

Plastic surgery plays a crucial role in the management of infected diabetic foot ulcers, especially when wounds are deep, non-healing, or involve exposed tendons or bones. Treatment is planned based on the location, depth, and severity of the ulcer.

The focus of reconstructive surgery is to remove infection, provide durable wound coverage using skin grafts or flaps, restore function, and reduce the risk of recurrence. Early plastic surgical intervention helps preserve the limb and improves long-term mobility.

“Timely reconstructive surgery can often prevent limb loss and help patients return to normal walking.” — Dr. Leena Jain

Points to remember to reduce the risk of foot ulcer

• Control blood sugar levels
• Reduce alcohol intake
• No tobacco consumption
• Reduce cholesterol levels
• Wear proper socks and footwear that provide added protection
• Daily inspection of the foot for cracks, cuts, blisters, bruises, and other abnormalities
• Properly fitting and comfortable footwear to be worn

• Expertise in plastic and reconstructive surgery for complex and infected diabetic foot ulcers.

• Focus on limb preservation, durable healing, and functional recovery, not just wound closure.

• Structured approach combining infection control, debridement, and advanced reconstruction.

• International training in microsurgery and reconstructive techniques for better long-term outcomes.

• Patient-centric care with emphasis on early mobility and return to daily activities.

• Available for consultation in Mumbai (Bandra & Borivali) for comprehensive ulcer management.

Before And After Results – Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment in Mumbai