Mayo Clinic Medical Edge from Mayo Clinic Edge Home Segments Contact B004 Vascular Limb Salvage Click here to copy and paste this text. Thousands of people have diabetes, coronary artery disease or other illnesses that can plug arteries in the legs and cut off circulation. In some cases blood flow is stopped almost completely, causing severe skin ulcers that don't heal - even leading to gangrene.
Amputation is often the only option.
But there is a surgical treatment that can restore blood flow to the lower limbs, drastically reducing the need for amputation. Vascular limb salvage is the topic on Medical Edge. The operation is not appropriate for all patients, especially if their arteries are too narrow or their disease has progressed too far. However, doctors consider each patient on a case to case basis. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.