The efficacy of Apligraf in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers.

Diabetic foot ulcerations can be a devastating complication of diabetes, causing prolonged hospitalization and significant morbidity. Previously identified risk factors include peripheral neuropathy, foot deformities, and poor wound healing due to an altered wound environment. Despite appropriate treatment, many diabetic ulcers fail to heal. Bioengineered tissue, such as Apligraf (Graftskin; Organogenesis Inc., Canton, Mass.), has been effectively and safely used to increase the incidence of complete wound closure and decrease the healing time. Studies have demonstrated that Apligraf works through the delivery of growth factors and cytokines to the chronic wound environment.