The writer is a professor emeritus of surgery at Mayo Clinic and the Medical University of South Carolina.
Even minor amputations without an accompanying attempt to improve blood flow can result in risk of major amputation and death.
Up to 50 percent of patients who receive an amputation will die within the first year; 70 percent will die within four years.
People of color receive amputations at 1.5 to four times the rate of white Americans.
The American Diabetes Association has declared war on preventable amputation by forming the Amputation Prevention Alliance.
Persons:
John Hallett Charleston
Organizations:
Mayo Clinic, Medical University of South, Health, American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association
Locations:
S.C, Medical University of South Carolina