April is Limb Loss Awareness Month, a time to recognize the strength of those living with limb loss and to focus on preventing amputations. The Blount Memorial Hospital Wound Care Center team is dedicated to providing advanced care with the goal of helping patients heal and, if possible, keep their limbs. The team provides education and offers early treatment, advanced techniques and individualized medical care.
Limb loss affects more than 2.7 million people in the United States, and that number is expected to double by 2050. Each year, around 185,000 amputations occur, often due to conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), diabetes, infections, cancer and vascular problems. These health issues can reduce blood flow, damage tissue and increase the risk of severe wounds or limb loss.
“Preventing limb loss starts with early treatment and proper wound care,” said Maria Edge, Blount Memorial’s Wound Care Center manager. “When patients come to us early, we can use a variety of treatments to promote healing and prevent serious complications.” At the Wound Care Center, physicians and specialized staff work together to provide personalized care.
One treatment option includes debridement, which removes dead or infected tissue to encourage healing. Another advanced method is negative pressure wound therapy, also called wound vac therapy, which uses gentle suction to remove fluids and improve circulation. Additionally, cellular tissue products may be applied to support wound closure and restore damaged skin. “We also evaluate blood flow to determine if vascular treatments, such as angioplasty, are needed to improve circulation,” Edge explained. “Better circulation means better healing and a lower risk of amputation.”
Preventing limb loss requires awareness and proactive care. If you have a slow-healing wound, it’s important to seek medical attention early. Proper foot care, especially for individuals with diabetes, is essential. Wearing well-fitting shoes, inspecting feet daily and keeping wounds clean can help prevent complications. “The sooner we see a patient, the more options we have to help them heal,” Edge said. “Our goal is always to keep patients active, healthy and free from the risk of losing a limb.”
Blount Memorial Hospital's Wound Care Center is committed to helping patients heal and improve quality of life. This Limb Loss Awareness Month, take the time to check in on your health, and encourage loved ones to do the same.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a non-healing wound, you can make an appointment with the Wound Care Center by calling 865-980-5089. A physician referral is not required, but if needed, referrals can be faxed to 865-980-5090.
