WP3 – Model

DIALECT has three scientific workpackages: Model, Measure and Make. WP “Model” focuses on the development of novel personalised risk-stratification schemes for diabetic foot ulceration and amputation. We will apply integrated imaging and gait models to sub-populations of people with diabetic foot disease to better understand the mechanisms and pathways of foot deformity and ulcer recurrence. And finally, we will adapt and apply models to develop new approaches to personalised interventions for the Charcot foot and patients in remission.

Four doctoral candidates will work in WP “Model”. One doctoral candidate will retrospectively analyse patients from three databases for a comprehensive set of disease-specific, biomedical, and behavioural parameters, as well as clinical outcomes, while a second doctoral candidate will develop and test an intervention to involve patients with diabetes at risk for ulceration in shared-decision-making about treatment for ulcer and amputation prevention. A third doctoral candidates will retrospectively assess 3 unique clinical datasets on Charcot feet to identify risk factors for Charcot. The doctoral candidate will aim to identify biomarkers (bone and soft-tissue abnormalities) and biomechanical mechanisms associated with active stage and midfoot deformity in Charcot feet, to create the first biomechanical model of these conditions. The court doctoral candidate will conduct analyses of histological, morphological and mechanical properties of skin and soft tissue at plantar ulcer healing and during post-healing follow-up. The doctoral candidate will develop a comprehensive biomechanical model of ulcer remission.

Prof. dr. Kirsten Lomborg from Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen is work package leader for WP3