Every year brings new advances in the podiatric profession as technologies and modalities emerge to help DPMs overcome existing clinical hurdles. This year’s crop of innovations include the possible use of marrow-derived stem cells to facilitate wound healing, a new topical agent to help treat eczematous dermatoses and fixation devices that podiatric surgeons may find useful.Without further delay, here is what the experts had to say on the top innovations in the podiatric profession.1. Telbermin (Genentech). Diabetic foot ulcers are a persistent c

Given the multifaceted nature of hallux limitus, having a strong understanding of the subject is vital for anyone who treats the feet. Indeed, hallux limitus is part of the discussion for a variety of conditions including hallux rigidus, hallux valgus, first MPJ arthritis, osteochondritis and first ray hypermobility. There are countless treatment solutions for hallux limitus depending on the nature of the pathology.Can one make any sense of the variety of topics related to hallux limitus? Is there a common ancestor to this pathology? If we know more about hallux limitus, is there a

Plantar fibroma is a common occurrence in the plantar aponeurosis that usually consists of a solitary lesion or multiple nodules. The condition commonly derives from the medial and central fascial band of the aponeurosis, and is typically non-cancerous. Plantar fibromas are generally slow growing lesions that are typically asymptomatic. Most nodules cause pain because of the irregular contour of the foot with ambulation and standing.

Most podiatrists may never be targeted by a malpractice claim. However, it is prudent to consider preemptive strategies to help reduce the risk of being sued and to minimize your potential exposure.Overall, recent jury verdict data show only slight increases to the median and average jury awards in many states and many medical malpractice cases resolve without the payment of any damages. However, the highest malpractice payouts have increased for the most severely injured patients, according to a Bureau of Justice review of the 2000 and 2004 statistics for Florida, Illinois, Maine,

With the incidence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus rising, how can healthcare institutions protect patients? The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) recently conducted a survey of 1,237 hospitals and has formulated recommendations for preventing MRSA transmission.The study noted the rate of MRSA was 46 in 1,000 patients. Of those patients, 34 in 1,000 patients were infected and 12 in 1,000 patients were colonized. The APIC emphasizes the importance of good hand hygiene, including frequent hand washing, alcohol-based