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How a Limb Preservation Program Can Support You During (or Prevent) an Amputation

December 02, 2022

Get your diabetes under control or possibly lose a limb. This prognosis is one that more than 37 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes may face at some point in their lives.

Nearly two-thirds of limb amputations in the United States are related to diabetes. Although amputation isn’t guaranteed, the longer you wait to address it, the higher your risk.

The Limb Preservation Program at The Hospital of Central Connecticut (HOCC) is designed to help stop that from happening to you.

> Connect with the HOCC Limb Preservation Program

How does the Limb Preservation Program work?

“The Limb Preservation Program is unique in that we can offer vascular, podiatry and wound care all under one roof. The goal is to have extra sets of eyes on the patients by working with these specialists,” says Christina Lakomski, APRN, advanced practitioner with the Limb Preservation Program at HOCC. The program allows them to identify issues much earlier and work to reduce the number of amputations.

“The program has seen increased medication compliance and patients bringing their diabetes numbers down,” Lakomski says. “Patients have been able to get patients in with vascular surgeons so they can undergo procedures to restore blood flow and prevent amputation.”

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How does diabetes affect your body?

Diabetes affects all organ systems within our body and causes inflammation. This in turn can cause narrowing of arteries. Decreased blood flow can prevent wounds from healing and that’s when infection can set in. Amputation of a foot or part of a leg is sometimes medically necessary to avoid further spread and prevent serious health complications.

“If we are unable to restore blood flow, that’s when a patient can end up with an amputation,” Lakomski adds.

When should someone see a doctor if they have a wound?

If you have a wound that is not healing on its own, make an appointment as soon as possible. The sooner medical professionals can intervene, the better the outcome will be.

What if amputation is necessary?

The Limb Preservation team is committed to doing everything they can to prevent amputation, but sometimes it’s unavoidable.

“If you require an amputation, we connect you with resources to get you up, walking and functioning as soon as possible. This could include physical therapy, prosthesis fittings or an amputee support group,” Lakomski says.