title: Surgical management of Charcot neuroarthropathy.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Charcot neuroarthropathy is one of the more devastating complications of diabetes. It is a progressive, destructive condition that is characterized by acute fracture, dislocation, and joint destruction in weight-bearing neuropathic foot. In its acute phase, it is often misdiagnosed and can lead to several deformities such as ulcerations and amputation. Early diagnosis and management is, therefore, imperative to avoid rapid progression.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  Review current literature on the diagnosis and management of diabetic patients with Charcot neuroarthropathy.
  
  
  METHODS
  Narrative review.
  
  
  METHODS
  Particular attention is directed to the role of surgical management in achieving long term osseous stability and alignment so that appropriate footwear and bracing are possible.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Charcot neuroarthropathy is a serious and potentially limb-threatening lower extremity late complication of diabetes. Correct timing, adequate fixation and a long post-operative weightbearing period are key to optimizing reconstructive surgery.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Primary care providers who treat diabetic patients should be cognizant of the possible complication among patients with diabetic neuropathy of which includes Charcot neuroarthropathy. In this paper, discussion is provided on a rational approach to functional limb salvage with various surgical techniques when non-operative management fails.
authors.affiliation: Division of Orthopedics, Southern Illinois School of Medicine, Orthopedic Center of Illinois, Springfield, IL, USA obidusuyi@yahoo.com.
authors.forename: Osaretin B
authors.initials: OB
authors.lastname: Idusuyi
mesh_terms: D001174:Arthrodesis / Q000379:methods*; D001177:Arthropathy, Neurogenic / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D016025:Bone Transplantation; D019468:Disease Management; D016267:External Fixators; D006801:Humans; D016268:Internal Fixators; D011859:Radiography
keywords: Chronic illness; diabetes; orthopedic surgery; surgical methods; the diabetic foot