It is crucial for individuals at risk of vascular diseases to undergo regular medical check-ups to detect any potential issues early on. If left undetected or poorly managed, these conditions can lead to the extreme measure of limb amputation.
Specialists emphasize the importance of seeking prompt medical attention for any signs of peripheral artery disease, a significant contributor to amputations, as well as other severe bacterial infections and blood clots.
While factors like septic wounds can also increase the likelihood of amputations, experts stress that peripheral vascular disease remains a primary cause of amputations globally. Therefore, timely intervention is crucial to avoid irreversible consequences.
According to Mayo Clinic, peripheral artery disease, or peripheral vascular disease, is a prevalent condition that results in narrowed arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the arms or legs and causing significant harm to the body.
For diagnosis, medical professionals recommend a Doppler ultrasound test to assess the blood flow in the arteries and veins for any abnormalities such as blood clots, narrowed arteries, or other cardiovascular issues affecting the limbs, arms, and abdomen.
Late detection of vascular diseases, including blood clots and compromised blood vessels, reportedly contributed to the tragic amputation and subsequent demise of the late Nollywood actor, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu.
In exclusive interviews with PUNCH Healthwise, medical experts highlighted that individuals with diabetes, severe bacterial infections, obesity, exposure to cigarette smoke, and immunosuppressive conditions are at higher risk of amputations.
Dr. Isaiah Abali, a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Abia State University Teaching Hospital, emphasized the detrimental effects of poorly managed vascular diseases, stressing the importance of avoiding conditions that could lead to limb loss or fatal outcomes.
Peripheral Artery Disease is identified as a key factor in global amputation cases, characterized by narrowed blood vessels limiting blood flow to the limbs, as explained by Dr. Abali.
He also noted that PAD results from the accumulation of fatty deposits and calcium in the artery walls, with diabetes, obesity, and smoking being significant risk factors for peripheral vascular disease.
Dr. Abali elaborated on the consequences of PAD, highlighting scenarios where circulation to the legs or upper limbs is compromised, leading to gangrene and necessitating amputation when the damage is irreversible.
Gangrene, he explained, signifies tissue death due to insufficient blood flow or severe bacterial infections, commonly affecting the arms, legs, toes, and fingers in cases of peripheral vascular diseases.
Damage to blood vessels from high blood sugar in diabetic individuals exacerbates the risk of gangrene, while factors like obesity can impede blood flow and heighten infection risks and impair wound healing.
When individuals with these predisposing conditions sustain injuries, the healing process may be challenging, potentially leading to infections, septic wounds, gangrene, and ultimately, amputations.
Furthermore, patients undergoing cancer treatments like chemotherapy may experience weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections and complicating wound healing processes.
Another significant risk factor for amputations is Peripheral Neuropathy, which damages nerves in extremities, leading to heightened risks of gangrene and subsequent amputations.
Treatment options for gangrene include antibiotics, oxygen therapy, and surgical interventions to restore blood flow and remove necrotic tissues, underlining the importance of early identification and intervention for improved recovery outcomes.
Echoing these sentiments, Dr. Akinsanya Olusegun-Joseph, a Consultant Cardiologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, highlighted the correlation between cardiovascular conditions and potential co-morbidities, urging individuals with hypertension, diabetes, and other risk factors to actively manage their health to prevent complications like amputations.
To prevent conditions that may culminate in amputations, Dr. Olusegun-Joseph recommended individuals to monitor their blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol, maintain a healthy diet, embrace physical exercise, and manage stress effectively.
A study published in the National Library of Medicine underscored the importance of managing vascular diseases effectively to prevent amputations, particularly in cases of peripheral artery disease that can lead to high morbidity and mortality rates.
Addressing these vascular issues promptly through efficient diagnostic testing and comprehensive care is crucial in improving patient outcomes and reducing the incidence of limb loss associated with peripheral artery disease.