Imaging of the Diabetic Foot

Diabetic foot complications are increasingly prevalent in the world, leading to significant morbidity and driving up associated health care costs. Complex pathophysiology and suboptimal specificity of current imaging modalities have made diagnosis challenging, mainly in the evaluation of superimposed foot infection to underlying arthropathy or other marrow lesions. Recent advances in radiology and nuclear medicine have the potential to streamline the assessment of diabetic foot complications. But we must be aware of the specific strengths and weaknesses of each modality, and their applications. This review offers a comprehensive approach to the spectrum of diabetic foot complications and their imaging appearances in conventional and advanced imaging studies, including optimal technical considerations for each technique. Advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques are highlighted, illustrating their complementary role to conventional MRI, in particular their potential impact in avoiding additional studies.

Automated summary

Diabetic foot complications are increasingly common and costly worldwide, posing a significant burden on patients. Current imaging methods lack specificity, making it challenging to diagnose superimposed foot infections and other lesions. Advances in radiology and nuclear medicine offer potential solutions, but it is important to understand the strengths and limitations of each modality. This review provides a comprehensive approach to imaging diabetic foot complications, including optimal technical considerations for each technique. Advanced MRI techniques are highlighted for their potential to avoid additional studies and complement conventional MRI.