LIMB SALVAGE

Foot and Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma is a leader in lower extremity limb salvage. Limb salvage refers to procedures that can help individuals affected by many disorders from the knee down. Conditions that may benefit from limb salvage include diabetic conditions of the foot, infections, tumors, and other conditions affecting the bones of the lower extremity. In the past, many of these conditions were treated with amputation, which has lead to further disability in the patient. Thanks to advances in modern technology, it is now possible to safely treat many of these conditions without the need for amputation.

Causes

Diabetes is a major factor in limb salvage surgery. More than 80% of amputations among diabetics start with a foot ulcer. If left untreated, the ulcer can quickly lead to irreversible soft tissue, nerve and bone damage that requires swift amputation. Although diabetes is a primary cause, many can face amputation for other reasons, including peripheral neuropathy, injury or trauma and poor circulation.

Treatments

The Foot and Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma offers diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of orthopedic injuries and conditions, including limb salvage. Our team of orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists and athletic trainers are committed to helping patients find relief and return to the highest level of activity possible.

Limb salvage surgery, also called limb-sparing surgery, is a surgical approach designed to prevent amputation. Every case is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to this surgery. However, when limb salvage surgery is necessary, Foot & Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma will ensure you maintain as much function as possible. Our surgeons work diligently to remove only what’s necessary and replace hard or soft tissue with implants or grafts using microsurgical techniques.

To explore your options with limb salvage, call our office at (405) 418-4500.