Millions of people worldwide are affected by diabetes, which is a chronic disease. One of the most severe complications of diabetes is the development of foot ulcers, which can lead to amputations if left untreated. In the UK alone, there are more than 170 diabetes-related amputations every week, which is why new technologies that can help reduce this number are critical.
Thermal imaging is a technique that has been used in various industries, including healthcare, for many years. Recently, a team of researchers from the University of Manchester has developed a new use for thermal imaging that could significantly reduce the number of diabetic foot amputations.
The team has developed a device that can detect and measure temperature changes on the skin of diabetic patients. By using this device, doctors can identify areas of the foot that have a higher temperature, indicating inflammation and a higher risk of developing ulcers. This information can then be used to intervene early and prevent the development of ulcers, reducing the need for amputations.
This new technology has already been tested on a small group of diabetic patients, and the results have been promising. In the future, it could potentially be used in clinics and hospitals worldwide to help prevent diabetic foot ulcers and amputations.
In addition to preventing amputations, this new technology could also have significant cost savings for healthcare systems. The cost of treating a diabetic foot ulcer and amputation is much higher than the cost of preventative measures, making this technology not only life-saving but also cost-effective.
The new use of thermal imaging in diabetic foot care represents a significant breakthrough in the fight against diabetes-related complications. With further development and implementation, it could help to reduce the number of amputations and improve the quality of life for millions of people living with diabetes.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
