Plantar abscess in the diabetic patient.

This is a report on 42 plantar abscesses in 40 patients with diabetes mellitus. Data concerning the mode of origin, the microorganisms involved, the antibiotics used, the end results or treatment, and the length of stay are given. Several typical cases are presented. Below-knee amputation can usually be avoided in diabetic patients with plantar abscess. The extremity can often be saved by a team consisting of specialists in infectious diseases, vascular surgery, and orthopaedic surgery.