Non-healing Ulcers On Tips in Surgery — 72yo Man | Vascular Surgery | SMLE Q#16857
SMLE Question #16857
Surgery
Vascular Surgery
Last updated: February 2026
A 72-year-old man with a 20-year history of poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus presents with non-healing ulcers on the tips of three right toes for 3 weeks. He reports intermittent calf pain after walking short distances that resolves with rest. Examination shows small shallow toe-tip ulcers with dry necrotic tissue; the foot is cool and pale. Dorsalis pedis pulses are markedly diminished bilaterally. There is no purulent discharge, spreading erythema, or systemic symptoms. What is the most appropriate initial management for his foot ulcers?
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