Daring to Preserve: How Poor Circulation Can Be Prevented from Resulting in Amputation

Amputation is a serious health issue that can be prevented with proper circulation. On June 27, 2024, Christopher DeFrancesco ’95 (CLAS) from UConn Health discussed measures to improve poor circulation and avoid amputation. In the UConn Health Pulse Podcast, Dr. Justin D’Addario, a vascular and endovascular surgeon at UConn Health, shared valuable insights on this topic.

Poor circulation can lead to major health problems, including peripheral artery disease or deep vein thrombosis. These conditions typically manifest in the legs and can cause symptoms like wounds on the foot that don’t heal, cramping in the calves when walking, or swollen legs. It is crucial to recognize these signs and seek a medical evaluation promptly to prevent amputation.

Dr. D’Addario provides guidance on what to watch for and explains how he and his colleagues address disorders related to poor circulation. They focus on limb-preserving interventions like the new DETOUR procedure, which aims to improve circulation and prevent amputation. Listeners can find further details on this topic by tuning into the podcast episode titled “Listen to Your Limbs.”