Dr. Giacomo Clerici

Surgeon Specialised in the Treatment of Diabetic Foot

Dr. Giacomo Clerici

Previously a Chief Physician at the most important Italian Hospital Groups (Humanitas – San Donato Hospital Group and San Raffaele, Multimedica Group), he is currently the scientific director for diabetic foot at the Leonardo Hospital Group (GOL) – Policlinico di Abano Terme and Policlinico Sassarese, as well as a consultant at the Quadrant Orthopaedic Centre in Omegna (Verbania).

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What is diabetic foot

The diabetic foot is one of the most serious and common chronic complications of diabetes mellitus, particularly when the disease is not well controlled. It is a complex clinical condition that involves alterations affecting the nerves (neuropathy), blood vessels (vasculopathy), and the skin of the foot, which can lead to the formation of ulcers, infections, and, in the most severe cases, even amputation.

Causes of diabetic foot

The main causes of diabetic foot are:

Neuropatia periferica

Diabetes can damage the nerves, reducing sensitivity to pain, heat, or cold. This makes it difficult to notice wounds, cuts, or irritations, which can worsen without the patient realising it.
Peripheral vascular disease (arteriopathy)
Diabetes can impair blood circulation, especially in the legs and feet. A reduced blood supply slows down wound healing and promotes infections.
Infections
Foot injuries can easily become infected, especially if neglected. Infections in diabetic feet can be very serious and may involve deep tissues and bone..

Signs and symptoms of diabetic foot

The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but among the most common are:

Formation of ulcers (wounds that do not heal)
Dry and cracked skin, with a risk of fissures
Calluses, corns or foot deformities
Redness, swelling or heat
Foul smell coming from a wound
Pain (which may also be absent in the case of neuropathy)
Tingling, cold feet or the sensation of "wooden feet"
Loss of tactile or thermal sensitivity.

Diabetic Foot

Interview with our Head of the U.O. Diabetic Foot Care Centre, Dr. Giacomo Clerici, broadcast on Fattore Bergamo La Salute on Bergamo TV. The discussion will focus on diabetic foot.

Phoenix (US)

1 dicembre 2021 premio alla carriera Paul Brand Lecture Award- Phoenix (US)

Los Angeles (US)

30 settembre 2023 premio alla carriera James Olmos Award Los Angeles (US)