Gangrene and Amputation

Unchecked, poor blood supply, neuropathy of the legs, and secondary infection of ulcers can result in gangrene of the feet, which is 50 times more common in people with diabetes than in the general populace. Daily foot inspection and care is the most crucial preventative measure. Once severe, infected ulceration and subsequent gangrene have set in, amputation is sometimes required. Dry gangrene can be caused by poor circulation. Wet gangrene can arise from an infected ulcer or a secondary infection of dry gangrene.

Post-amputation skin problems include pain, tingling, stump sensitivity and infection. Thorough cleansing and dressing according to physician instructions can help prevent postoperative infection. Physical therapy is instituted after initial tissue healing, paving the way for possible prosthetic (artificial limb) use. Candidates for prosthesis use begin by wearing a temporary prosthesis for increasingly longer periods of time daily. This gradual process enables the post-amputation patient to become accustomed to the sensation of the artificial limb, and is followed by prescription of a custom-fitted permanent prosthesis.

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