Potassium permanganate in treatment of diabetic foot ulcer: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Abstract Background and Aims Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are a severe complication in diabetes patients, often resulting in significant morbidity and mortality due to non‐healing. This study investigated the effectiveness of 5% topical potassium permanganate on these ulcers. Methods A clinical trial was conducted on 23 patients with Wagner grade I and II DFU. Patients in the control group received standard treatment, while those in the intervention group also received 5% potassium permanganate topically. Data were recorded at 0, 7, 14, and 21 days for analysis. Results Among 23 patients studied, 7 (30.4%) were male and 16 (43.7%) female, with an average age of 59 ± 4 years. Both groups showed a statistically significant decrease in wound size and infection over time (p < 0.001). The intervention group, however, had a more substantial reduction in wound size and infection rate (p < 0.05). Conclusion Potassium permanganate, when applied topically, is both well‐tolerated and effective in enhancing wound healing and reducing infection in DFU, suggesting its potential as a complementary treatment.

Keywords

• diabetic
• diabetic foot
• foot
• foot ulcer