Our Services / Limb Salvage

What is limb salvage?

Limb salvage is where the Adler Foot and Ankle team works to save your foot or leg from amputation. It involves aggressive treatments and procedures.

You must have an adequate blood supply in your lower limbs to keep them healthy. Limb salvage treatments restore proper blood flow into your feet and legs.

Why would I need limb salvage?

You might need limb salvage if you have a severely infected foot or ankle ulcer. Ulcers are open wounds that form when the tissues break down. This is usually caused by poor blood circulation and fluid buildup in the lower limb. Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) increases your risk of developing ulcers.

The Adler Foot and Ankle team diagnoses and treats:

• Arterial ulcers
• Venous ulcers
• Diabetic ulcers
• Lymphatic ulcers

Ulcers are usually slow to heal. Sometimes, they won’t heal at all despite intensive treatment. The wounds can also become infected, leading to gangrene. If you have gangrene, your tissues die and blacken. The specialized wound care Adler Foot and Ankle helps ulcers heal and prevents infection and gangrene.

What does limb salvage involve?

Limb salvage involves treating recurring circulation problems before you develop severe complications. The procedures include:

Angioplasty

Angioplasty is a minimally invasive technique that opens narrowed or blocked peripheral arteries in your legs. Dr. Adler uses a balloon made of medical-grade material that he inflates inside the blood vessels. This expands the space and improves blood flow. He can also insert a stent — a small mesh tube that holds the artery open.

Atherectomy

Atherectomy is another minimally invasive procedure. It removes the plaque that’s blocking your arteries. Orbital atherectomy uses a tiny burr resembling fine sandpaper to rub down the plaque. Rotational atherectomy uses a spinning blade to remove the plaque and suck it away. Laser atherectomy sends out a high-energy light beam to destroy the blockage.

These procedures widen your arteries without open surgery. They significantly improve blood flow, reducing your risk of amputation.

If you have a bone infection, you might require antibiotics or surgery. Sometimes, Dr. Adler will perform a partial toe or foot amputation to keep your blood flow as healthy as possible. He only proceeds with amputation when absolutely necessary.

Call Adler Foot and Ankle today or book an appointment online to learn more about wound care and limb salvage.