Cases of gangrene caused by diabetes and vascular occlusion are rapidly increasing worldwide. Experts warn that if not diagnosed in time, this disease can result in amputation (the surgical removal or detachment of any part of the body due to trauma).
Medianews.az reports that a Turkish cardiovascular surgeon, Associate Professor Emre Selçuk, spoke on this issue.
He stated that although trauma and accidents were previously considered the main causes of gangrene, the situation has now changed. According to him, today approximately 60 percent of patients undergoing amputation due to gangrene face this problem because of vascular occlusion.
The specialist noted that according to statistical forecasts, by 2050, approximately 3 million people annually in the United States alone may face the risk of amputation due to gangrene.
What are the first symptoms?
According to the doctor, the disease usually does not start suddenly and develops gradually.
- In the first stage, pain occurs in the legs when walking;
- In the next stage, numbness, coldness, and pallor are observed in the legs;
- In more severe cases, blackening and sores appear on the toes and heel area.
If timely intervention is made at these stages, it is possible to open the vessels and restore blood circulation. However, if the disease progresses and gangrene forms, the only way out may be amputation.
Timely diagnosis is of vital importance
Emre Selçuk emphasized that most peripheral vascular diseases can be controlled with early diagnosis and proper treatment. Treatment methods include angiographic interventions, bypass surgeries, hybrid surgery, and medication therapy.
The doctor noted that this condition is known as "critical limb ischemia" and is essentially a heart attack of the foot. Therefore, early diagnosis and timely medical intervention play a key role in saving body parts.
Medianews.az