Scientists from Tomsk Polytechnic University in Russia, along with National Autonomous Mexico University, have developed techniques to treat diabetic foot syndrome with special insoles treated with silver nanoparticles. The techniques help to fight ulcers appearing on feet in diabetic patients and facilitates their healing and disinfection, reducing the risk of amputation.
Diabetic foot syndrome is one of the most serious complications of diabetes. Due to the large amount of sugar in the body there are changes in the peripheral nerves, blood vessels, skin and soft tissues, bones, and joints of the patient. Infections, ulcers, suppurations, and other issues may emerge. Up to 15 percent of people with diabetes have the risk of developing ulcers on their feet, and in its advanced form diabetic foot syndrome can lead to amputation.
Silver preparations being developed by Tomsk Polytechnic University, on partnership with their Novosibirsk and Mexican counterparts, are able to reduce such risks.
“The research has shown silver’s antibacterial properties facilitate rapid healing of ulcers and suppurations in patients with diabetic foot syndrome,” says TPU Professor Alexey Pestryakov, Head of the Department of Physical and Analytical Chemistry. “Together with colleagues from Mexico, where the problem is particularly acute, we are working to create special insoles for diabetic patients.
“The development has passed clinical tests. In patients who had used the insoles impregnated with silver nanoparticles, leg ulcers healed up; the risk of amputations significantly reduced.”
A team led by Pestryakov has developed pharmaceuticals based on silver nanoparticles, which have a universal impact on viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
Pestryakov points out that polytechnicers have cooperated with Mexican colleagues for more than 10 years.
“We have got a contract with the Mexican government, gained large grants for research. Built a serious team consisted of scientists and doctors. Together we are working to improve the quality of our products; we carry out joint research and experiments,” he says.
