Patients with diabetes are often at risk of losing a foot due to an unnoticed ulcer becoming infected. While doctors have previously believed amputation to be the best route for severe cases, there is evidence to suggest that proper limb preservation administered by a dedicated team of specialists can help save limbs that would otherwise be lost. This is known as podiatric limb preservation.
What is Podiatric Limb Preservation?
Limb preservation involves a multi-discipline approach to saving a foot that would otherwise be amputated. This includes an advanced team of podiatrists to assess the overall health of the foot, vascular surgeons capable of restoring blood flow, wound care specialists to ensure the ulcer heals, and sometimes the creation of prosthetics and braces in cases of partial amputation.
Ultimately, the goal of a limb preservation team is to avoid major amputation and preserve the patient’s quality of life while offering a much shorter recovery time from any necessary procedures.
When is Limb Preservation Necessary?
Limb preservation is most necessary in patients with advanced diabetes. Because many diabetics can no longer feel sensation in their feet, it can be difficult to recognize the presence of a wound such as an ulcer. When the wound gets infected and deepens to the point of reaching muscle tissue or bone, the foot can be compromised.
In cases such as this, limb preservation is a viable alternative to amputation. Additionally, patients with bone cancer, limb sarcoma, peripheral arterial disease, or limb trauma can benefit from such care.
What is Involved in Limb Preservation?
Effective podiatric limb preservation involves several steps, including:
- Assessing the condition of the foot
- Caring for the wound
- Restoring blood flow to the foot
- Performing any minor or partial amputations that might be necessary
- Developing a long-term care strategy
If you believe you could benefit from a limb preservation team, discuss it with our team at Hampton Roads Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine before moving forward with amputation. Doing so could drastically improve your quality of life and give you a greater chance of keeping the limb in the future.
