Aims/hypothesis We sought to identify factors related to shortterm outcome of foot ulcers in patients with diabetes treated in a multidisciplinary system until healing was achieved. Methods Consecutively presenting patients with diabetes and worst foot ulcer (Wagner grade 1-5, below ankle) (n=2,511) were prospectively followed and treated according to a standardised protocol until healing was achieved or until death. The number of patients lost to dropout was 31.The characteristics of the remaining 2,480 patients were: 1,465 men, age 68±15 years (range 18-96), type 1 diabetes 18%, type 2 diabetes 82% and insulin-treated 62%. Results The healing rate without major amputation in surviving patients was 90.6% (n=1,867). Sixty-five per cent (n=1,617) were healed primarily, 9% (n=250) after minor amputation and 8% after major amputation; 17% (n=420) died unhealed. Out of 2,060 surviving patients, 1,007 were neuroischaemic (48.8%). In a multiple regression analysis, primary healing was related to co-morbidity, duration of diabetes, extent of peripheral vascular disease and type of ulcer. In neuropathic ulcers, deep foot infection, site of ulcer and co-morbidity were related to amputation. Amputation in neuroischaemic ulcers was related to comorbidity, peripheral vascular disease and type of ulcer. Age, sex, duration of diabetes, neuropathy, deformity and duration of ulcer or site of ulcer did not have an evident influence on probability of amputation. Conclusions/interpretation Patients with diabetic foot ulcer suffer from multi-organ disease. Factors related to outcome are correspondingly complex.

Although colonoscopy is a common examination, there is limited research focusing on how patients experience this procedure. It is important that a colonoscopy is tolerated, as it may lead to lifesaving diagnostics and treatment. This study aims to explore adult patients' experience of undergoing a colonoscopy regarding the time prior to, during, and after the procedure. This was a qualitative study with individual interviews (n = 24) and a purposeful sample that was analyzed using thematic analysis. The analysis revealed four themes. The first, “making up one's mind,” describes how the participants gathered information and reflected emotionally about the forthcoming procedure. The hope of clarification motivated them to proceed. In the theme “getting ready,” self-care was in focus while the participants struggled to follow the instructions and carry out the burdensome cleansing. The next theme, “going through,” illuminates' experiences during the colonoscopy and highlights the importance of feeling involved and respected. The last theme, “finally over,” is characterized by experiences of relief, tiredness, and a desire for clarity. The healthcare professionals' ability to meet the participants' needs is vital, given that the experiences are highly individual. These findings contribute to a variegated image of how patients experience the process of undergoing a colonoscopy.

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