Sequelae following sural nerve biopsy in type 1 diabetic subjects.

OBJECTIVES To detect post-operative sequelae of sural nerve biopsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS A questionnaire mailed to type 1 diabetic patients (n = 24; male/female 23/1; reply n = 23) 2 years after biopsy. RESULTS Type 1 diabetic patients (age 56 [11]; median [interquartile range]) had a long duration of diabetes (DM; 20 [19] years) and all had neuropathy. Three out of 24 patients developed infection (two superficial and one deep) and one had a post-operative bleeding. Less frequent pain among the patients were reported from one centre. About one-third or more of the patients still complained of pain, mostly mild, in the biopsy area and paraesthesia in the foot 2 years after surgery. More than two-thirds of the patients were reluctant for further biopsy; a crucial information in drug trial planning. CONCLUSIONS Sequelae of a sural nerve biopsy occur in type 1 DM. The risk for wound infections should be considered.