Post-Traumatic and Diabetic Limb Salvage
Diabetes, when left untreated can have devastating outcomes.
Patients with diabetes are especially prone to lower extremity ulcerations or infections. Both of these are major risk factors which can lead to necessary amputations.
While amputation may be recommended in advanced situation, in many cases, amputation of certain limbs can be prevented with proper care and addressing of wounds. However, even in some advanced cases, diabetic limb salvage can help prolong one’s life, without the need for amputation.
While some hospitals and clinics don’t consider diabetic limb salvage to be a viable option, Dr. Anthony LaMarra considers it a viable treatment plan in some cases.
Amputation may be needed if the sores or wounds have become too dangerous to care for, but in some cases limb salvage may be able to save the limb — without the need for amputation. Limb salvage however is also considered a traumatic surgery, and while it may be lifesaving, it can also be very traumatic on the body.
Prevention
During the last twenty years, prevention and management of diabetic foot disease has improved significantly. Clinical management helps to prevent diabetic foot disease by identifying at-risk individuals, and implementing measures for foot disease prevention.
Prevention of diabetic foot disease includes glycemic control, periodic foot examinations, and patient education.
While prevention of diabetic foot disease is the best defense against amputation, in some cases surgical intervention may be necessary.
For more information on post-traumatic and diabetic limb salvage, contact Dr. Anthony LaMarra, Houston-based podiatrist.