Literature-based visual and morphological characterization of diabetes-related foot lesions to inform high-fidelity three-dimensional anatomical modelling

Foot lesions are a major complication of diabetes mellitus and require educational strategies that support early recognition and prevention. This study aimed to characterize the morphological attributes of diabetes-related foot lesions described in published literature and translate them into technical requirements for high-fidelity three-dimensional anatomical modelling. A descriptive methodological study was conducted based on a narrative literature review. Lesion location, depth, borders, texture, colour, wound bed, exudate, necrosis, hyperkeratosis, fissures and perilesional changes were extracted and synthesized into a visual translation matrix. Seventy-one studies were included after eligibility reassessment. Plantar, neuropathic, chronic, deep and recurrent ulcers were the most frequent patterns, with plantar ulcers predominating. Key modelling features included pressure-bearing areas, hyperkeratotic halos, fissures, central depression, irregular borders and moist or necrotic wound beds. The findings provide an evidence-informed framework for developing clinically interpretable three-dimensional anatomical models for undergraduate health education, professional training, patient education and early recognition of foot lesions in people with diabetes.