Growth factors in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers

Authors: Bennett, S.P.¹; Griffiths, G.D.²; Schor, A.M.¹; Leese, G.P.³; Schor, S.L.¹

Source: British Journal of Surgery, Volume 90, Number 2, February 2003 , pp. 133-146(14)

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract:

Background:

Chronic foot ulceration is a major source of morbidity in diabetic patients. Despite traditional comprehensive wound management, including vascular reconstruction, there remains a cohort of patients with non-responding wounds, often resulting in amputation. These wounds may benefit from molecular manipulation of growth factors to enhance the microcirculation.

Methods:

A review of the current literature was performed using Pubmed, with secondary references obtained from key articles.

Results and conclusion:

There has been a generally disappointing clinical outcome from growth factor trials, although topical platelet-derived growth factor has shown significant benefit and should be considered in non-healing, well perfused ulcers after failure of conventional wound care. The modulatory role of the extracellular matrix in the cellular response to growth factors and data from regenerative-type fetal wound healing are further areas of interest. The chemical induction of microvessel formation may become a future therapeutic option. Copyright © 2003 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd

Document Type: Review article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/bjs.4019

Affiliations: 1: Unit of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Dental School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK 2: Department of Vascular Surgery, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK 3: Department of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK

Publication date: 2003-02-01

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