FAQs About Limb Preservation

Dr. William Montross and the team at Montross Extremity Medical in Colorado Springs, CO are dedicated to keeping you on your feet through limb preservation.

Limb Preservation FAQs

For quite some time, amputation was believed to be the best – and only, in some cases – choice for many conditions, that is thankfully no longer the case. Limb preservation is now the focus, which basically means doing everything possible to avoid full amputation. 

If you’ve been told that you should explore or consider limb preservation, you might have some questions. Dr. Montross and the team at Montross Extremity Medical in Colorado Springs, CO answer some of the most common questions below.

When might limb preservation be needed? 

Many cases of foot amputation are caused by diabetes. Diabetes can make an ulcer go unnoticed until it is too late, leading to the need for drastic measures. However, anyone can experience infections or ulcers that won’t heal. Peripheral artery disease can also lead to amputation. Fortunately, limb preservation can also be utilized in many of the same cases.

What’s involved with preserving the limbs?

The first step is quite simple – analyzing the limb to get a full understanding of its condition. Once that analysis is complete, a care plan is put in place that typically involves several methods. However, those methods can vary depending on your condition. 

In short, though, it will usually involve restoring blood flow to the area and caring for any wounds. When necessary, minor procedures or partial amputations are explored and carried out. These can include the following and more: 

• Soft tissue, skin, or bone grafts 
• Soft tissue expansion
• Reconstructive surgery
• Nerve transfer 
• Limb salvage surgery 

Can I prevent the need for amputation or limp preservation procedures?

Yes, if you remain active in your health before problems arise. Often, by the time preservation and amputation are considered, the condition can be too far progressed. However, by staying on top of your regular health care appointments, taking care of your body through exercise and proper nutrition, and visiting a podiatrist regularly, potential issues can be detected early and stopped in their tracks.

Learn more about limb preservation and whether it’s right for you by visiting Dr. Montross at Montross Extremity Medical in Colorado Springs, CO. Call (719) 365-7340 today.