WTP1.2 Quality of Life concerns in patients undergoing operations for diabetic foot disease during the COVID-19 pandemic

Aim

To evaluate QOL of diabetic patients following diabetic foot surgeries during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Method

Single Centre retrospective data collected from hospital systems between 01/01/2021- 31/12/2021.

30 patients requiring surgery for diabetic foot disease identified and were called for QOL questionnaire, 23 participated.

Results

56% (13/23) patients were <70 years. 52% (12/23) underwent major limb amputations.

Pre-operatively, 54% (7/13) of the <70 years and 40% (4/10) >70 years had mainly physical concerns and 46% (6/13) <70 years and 60% (6/10) of >70 years emotional concerns.

Post-operative concerns were divided into 7 groups. The commonest were the “ability to mobilise and loss of independence” 65% (15/23), “wound healing duration & worries about tissue healing” 48% (11/23) and “further hospitalisation or re-intervention” 43% (10/23). These were similar when divided by age groups. Additionally, feeling abandoned post discharge was frequently described.

Conclusion

QOL concerns in our diabetic population following foot operations highlighted important issues that need to be addressed. The majority voiced concerns regarding their loss of independence/mobility, fear of the wound site not healing and worry regarding the need for further re-intervention. This further highlights the need of patient education and support and enhancing service provision pre- and post –op.