This pilot study shows that histomorphology of unaffected foot bone is mostly not abnormal in diabetic patients with neuropathy and PIVD. Further study is necessary to corroborate this preliminary evidence of absence of a "diabetic osteopathy" in the diabetic foot.

Closed amputation was successful only in absence of CFI and of osteomyelitis at the osteotomy site. The extension of osteomyelitis was grossly underestimated. Preoperative MR imaging (rather than X-ray) to diagnose osteomyelitis could improve the outcome of a closed minor amputation, and justify its preferred application at the diabetic foot.