Limb salvage for veterans with diabetes: to care for him who has borne the battle

Abstract

Diabetes is a leading cause of nontraumatic lower limb amputations. Unfortunately, even with advances in medical management and surgical techniques, the 5-year rate of survival after lower limb amputation is poor. This article discusses the incidence of diabetes and its impact on the development of ulceration and lower limb amputation. This article also discusses the factors impacting wound healing, and the services provided by the Veterans Administration Hospital in Houston, Texas to help prevent lower limb amputation.