MolecuLight is an imaging tool used to assess wounds. This digital device can measure and document a wound to check for the presence and location of bacteria. In addition, it can save images and videos to assess how a wound is healing over time. Tools such as MolecuLight can help podiatrists treat diabetic foot wounds more effectively and can prevent serious complications from developing. Not to mention, it's an in-office device that can eliminate the time it takes between biopsy, sending to a lab and diagnosis. 
How MolecuLight Works
MolecuLight is a small, handheld imaging device that can take images and videos of a wound. It uses safe violet light to check for bacteria and can measure the size of a wound. MolecuLight can be used by doctors for wound assessment to determine what type of treatment is needed to heal a wound based on the specific type and amount of bacteria that’s present. Since bacterial infections can lead to serious complications, understanding the bacteria in a wound can help doctors treat bacterial infections more effectively in order to speed up healing.
Treating Diabetic Foot Wounds
It is important to see an experienced podiatrist at the first sign of a foot wound to prevent serious complications such as:
- Infection that spreads to surrounding tissue or bone
- Blood infection
- Gangrene
- Amputation of a limb, foot, or toe
When podiatrists use the MolecuLight tool, they can more accurately understand and detect the bacteria that is causing the foot wound. In doing so, they can help prevent the wound from becoming more serious. Other treatment options include:
- Medication. Using a topical antibiotic ointment can help prevent infection and can promote wound healing. If the wound is infected, a course of oral antibiotics may be recommended.
- Cleaning. The wound should be kept clean, dry, and covered. A daily washing with a mild soap and warm water can help in healing and preventing infection.
- Debridement. Debridement is a procedure used to remove areas of dead skin, tissue, or debris from a wound. This procedure is done by a podiatrist using a scalpel to help promote new tissue growth and healing.
- Off-loading. While the wound heals, you may need to keep weight and pressure off the foot. This can be done by using crutches or wearing a cast or boot.
- Surgery. In cases where a wound does not heal, surgery may be recommended. Surgery may be performed to correct a foot deformity in order to remove pressure from the specific area where the wound has developed.
Contact Us at One of Our Texas Podiatry Offices in Grapevine or Keller
If you have a wound on your foot that is not healing properly or have questions about whether MolecuLight is an option for you, consult with one of the podiatrists at Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists. To schedule an appointment, use our convenient contact form below, or call our office directly at 817-481-4000.
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