70% amputations due to diabetes

As many as 1,85,000 people undergo amputations every year globally and 70 per cent of these cases are related to diabetes, according to the data collected by the World Health Organisation. The data shows that it is important to take care and save the limbs.

This is a highly debilitating factor in diabetic patients and below the knee amputations are most common.

Experts state that this occurs due to the narrowing of the peripheral artery where the blood flow to the legs, stomach, arms and head is affected. If it is not treated in the early stages and if there is a wound due to injury then there has to be surgical removal of the limb.

With 69.2 million diabetics in the country, of which an estimated 36 million are not even diagnosed, India tops the world ranking in terms of a maximum number of people living with diabetes.

Dr Narendranadh Meda, senior vascular surgeon at KIMS Hospital, explained, “There is an increase in the number of patients suffering from diabetic foot. The pain is moderate initially but if not managed effectively it can get worse. Treatment is important as otherwise saving limbs is not possible.”

Amputations are the only way out and there are new techniques like drug-coated balloon which are now being tried in India to save the limbs. Experts state that the new technology offers hope but it is important that patients be managed properly to avoid these complications of infection, ulcer in the leg or foot.

When it is not treated properly, the only option for doctors is amputation. The disability is also a major burden to the family.