Is Elevated Hba1c Level Associated with Achilles Tendon Contracture Development in Diabetic Foot Patients?
https://doi.org/10.5704/MOJ.2203.010
- Author:
Primadhi RA
1
;
Rasyid HN
1
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
diabetes, ulcer, HbA1c, contracture
- From:Malaysian Orthopaedic Journal
2022;16(No.1):70-75
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction: Chronic hyperglycemia can increase
extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation that leads to
tendon fibrosis and subsequent contracture. Considering the
reversibility of fibrosis, it is important to identify factors that
are associated with it. The purpose of this study was to
determine whether elevated HbA1c levels are associated
with the development of Achilles tendon contracture in
diabetes mellitus patients.
Materials and methods: We reviewed 206 patients with
diabetic foot problems between January 2015-December
2019. Demographic data, the presence of Achilles tendon
contracture, and laboratory results were documented and
statistically analysed between patients with contracture and
without contracture.
Results: Patients’ mean age was 58.46 ± 6.67 years old.
Contracture was found in 84 out of 206 patients (40.78%)
patients, with female predominance (45/84 patients; 53%).
While contracture was found significantly associated with
sex difference (0.035) and age groups (p=0.006), there was
no meaningful association with HbA1c level groups
(p=0.324).
Conclusion: Findings do not support the use of HbA1c level
as a sole determinant of Achilles tendon contracture.
Seemingly, there are other confounding factors affecting the
Achilles tendon contracture development in diabetes
mellitus patients. It should be emphasised that albeit the
association between chronic hyperglycemia and contracture
development, the low HbA1c should not be overlooked as
having no risk of Achilles tendon contracture and vice versa.
- Full text:16.2022my1227.pdf
