Surgery Helps Prevent Amputations

Timely surgery may lower the risk of amputationof the foot or lower leg in diabetic patients.When osteomyelitis (bone inflammation) occursin the foot and toes, surgery to remove deadareas and to restore circulation can prevent moreextensive amputations, according to a study reportedin the Annals of Surgery (June 2005).

In a study of 237 participants with diabetesand nonhealing foot or toe ulcers, the limb inquestion was saved in 80% of the cases. Theresearchers also pointed out that reconstructionof the blood supply enhanced the chances ofwound healing 3-fold. Patients treated with surgery,compared with medical therapy, neededfewer home health services.