Limb Salvage and Diabetic Wounds

Limb salvage is sometimes needed when a diabetic wound has become severely infected to the point to where a patient’s life may be at stake. In some cases, part of a limb may need to be amputated in order to save the rest. For instance, a foot may require amputation in order to save the patient’s leg. These are some of the reasons this type of procedure may be necessary, as well as some of the steps you can take to avoid this problem.

Salvage Surgery

Diabetes affects more than 20 million people in the United States, and that number continues to grow each year. It is possible that just as many people have the disease and have not been diagnosed. The disease often causes a condition known as peripheral neuropathy, which can lead to numbness in the extremities. If a person with peripheral neuropathy suffers some sort of wound, he or she may not be aware. As a result, that wound could become infected to the point that limb salvage may be needed.

Limb salvage is an alternative to total amputation, and, in many instances, people who undergo the procedure can still lead full, active lives with minimal restrictions. However, recovery can be lengthy and other surgeries may be needed in order to help ensure the most positive outcome possible.

Preventing the Need for Limb Salvage

There are some things you can do to reduce the chances you will ever need limb salvage. For example, check your feet every day to see to make sure you do not have any type of wound. Look for any skin problems such as drainage, scrapes, cuts, redness or swelling. Try to wear shoes both indoors and out to lessen the risk of being cut and have your circulation checked on a regular basis.

DFW Wound Care Center has a long track record of success in performing limb salvage procedures, with patients living healthy, active lives afterward. If you would like to schedule an examination, contact us online or call 972-665-6292 (Plano) or 972-318-2383 (Lewisville).