1422. Evaluation of Diabetic Foot Infections and Osteomyelitis in a Veteran Population: Targets for Improved Outcomes

Abstract Background Diabetic foot infections (DFI) complicated with osteomyelitis are a difficult infection to treat often resulting in poor outcomes. DFIs often require amputations, including serial amputations due to inadequate initial intervention and infection progression. This study examines various diagnostic and treatment strategies aimed to improve outcomes. Methods This retrospective cohort study included patients greater than or equal to 18 years of age with a DFI as identified via ICD 9 and ICD 10 codes from January 2005 to December 2018. Outcomes were analyzed to measure the impact of baseline characteristics on outcomes. The severity of infection was defined by PEDIS score (perfusion, extent, depth, infection, and sensation). Descriptive statistics were used to report differences. Results One hundred and thirty patients were included, 72% with osteomyelitis. The median PEDIS score was 3 (interquartile range 2–3). Magnetic resonance imaging was used to evaluate 38% of the population. Osteomyelitis patients who had an MRI performed were noted to have a higher rate of appropriate treatment and cure (56%) when compared with a similar group of patients who did not receive an MRI (25%) (P = 0.005). Comparing prolonged (> 4 weeks) therapy to short therapy, there was a significantly higher proportion of cures noted (62.71% vs. 36.62%, P < 0.0001). Failure was associated with less than 4 weeks of therapy (66.7%, P = 0.03) and presence of residual inflammation/infection after amputation (58.3%, P < 0.0001). Route of antibiotic had no impact on failure rates. However, patients with an initial drug-bug mismatch were more likely to fail. Sixty-six percent of patients with decreased ankle brachial index failed (P = 0.02). Conclusion Diabetic foot infections have serious consequences. Over a third of patients required further amputation or additional antibiotic therapy. Risk of failure was associated with short durations of therapy, poor perfusion, and residual inflammation after amputation. However, a higher rate of cures was noted with use of an MRI and prolonged therapy in patients. Stewardship initiatives may wish to focus on ensuring prolonged treatment courses and appropriate surgical intervention rather than on route of antibiotic therapy as there was no difference in failure rates. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.