Deep tissue biopsy vs. superficial swab culture monitoring in the microbiological assessment of limb‐threatening diabetic foot infection

Abstract

Swabbing and deep tissue cultures appear to be equally reliable for the initial monitoring of antimicrobial treatment in severe diabetic foot infection. However, our experience seems to suggest that deep tissue might be more sensitive than swabbing for monitoring those isolates that have been selected for antibiotic resistance, i.e. those from ulcers that are still active after 30 days of treatment.