This paper describes the key elements of medical care for patients with diabetic foot and the characteristic course of the disease that can be seen before and after the appearance of foot ulcers. Diabetes has a high prevalence in the general population and progression of the disease may cause for some patients to develop diabetic foot ulcers. Diabetic foot can affect patients regardless of the etiology of diabetes and represents an important public health topic carrying high financial expenses for medical treatment. Pathophysiology of the diabetic foot consists of a triad that includes obstructive vascular changes, diabetic neuropathy, and the action of infectious agents. Systemic changes specific to diabetes play a role in the faster development and progression of the atherosclerotic disease. In primary health care, comprehensive care should be provided by implementing prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. Physicians in the field of general practice often see the chronic manifestations of diabetic foot problems, but acute abrupt symptoms and the presence of infection may require urgent surgical treatment. As part of the diabetic foot problems bone and joint deformities which complicate treatment can occur. Infections can worsen the general condition of the diabetic foot patient and pose a life threatening risk. One of the possible outcomes is the amputation of the fingers, foot or larger parts of the lower limb. By preventing complications and assuring proper treatment it is possible to lower mortality and prolong survival. Various modalities of surgical care are available in modern times and there are various techniques that improve outcomes and results. Radiological diagnostics play an important role in preoperative planning and monitoring the course of the disease. This paper describes the basic surgical principles of treating wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers, as well as the more complex principles of specialist surgical treatment. In surgical treatment, the elements of plastic-reconstructive, vascular, and orthopedic surgery are important, which are intertwined in a complex way and represent the basis of quality treatment.