Kochi: Aster Medcity announced the Podiatric Lab Services as part of its ‘Save Your Limb’ campaign, addressing the rise in amputation cases. The campaign focuses on creating awareness about preventable causes of limb loss, especially in diabetic patients, and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, patient education, and early intervention in combating amputations.
“India witnesses more than half a million people living with limb amputations, with an annual rate ranging from 25,000 to 35,000, as reported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Shockingly, around 60% of these amputations are attributed to diabetes, a preventable condition. The second and third reason is being traumatic amputations (accidents) and tumours respectively. Approximately 25 to 30% of diabetic patients experience foot problems, and without proper action, 20% may face amputation or limb loss,” said Dr. R. V Jayakumar, Senior Consultant – Endocrinology at Aster Medcity, Kochi.
“In the face of such statistics, Aster Medcity is taking proactive steps to address the root causes of amputations and contribute significantly to limb-saving efforts. Incorporating endocrinology services into the lab allows us to manage diabetes and its associated complications effectively,” says Dr. V. P Vipin, Consultant – Endocrinology, at Aster Medcity, Kochi.
The ‘Save Your Limb’ campaign emphasizes patient education, early identification, and prompt multidisciplinary treatment to prevent amputations, particularly in diabetic patients.
The Podiatry Diagnostic Lab at Aster Medcity provides advanced diagnostic foot tests, including vascular, neurological, and foot pressure measurements and analysis. The lab’s multidisciplinary team, consisting of podiatry and plastic surgeons, technicians, and physician assistants, collaborates with various specialists, including endocrinologists, diabetologists, interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, foot and ankle surgeons, infectious disease specialists, nephrologists, pain management specialists, and intensivists.
Highlighting the significance of early detection, Dr. Ananthakrishna Bhat V, Consultant – Plastic Surgery & Podiatry at Aster Medcity, said, “Regular clinic visits and early treatment play a crucial role in positive outcomes. Recognizing and addressing even minor foot problems can make a significant difference in saving limbs.”
“Early angioplasty is a game-changer in the fight against limb loss. Timely intervention through angioplasty not only saves limbs but also preserves the patient’s overall quality of life, allowing them to maintain mobility”, said Dr. Rohit P V Nair, Consultant – Interventional Radiologist & Embolisation Specialist, Aster Medcity, Kochi.
The Lab also facilitates clinical and diagnostic assessments, offering both outpatient and inpatient treatment options based on the severity of the foot problem. The coordination efforts of the podiatry surgeon with other specialists have proven to be successful in saving many patients’ limbs and lives.
Dr. Ananthakrishna Bhat V, Consultant – Plastic Surgery & Podiatry at Aster Medcity, Dr. R. V Jayakumar, Senior Consultant – Endocrinology at Aster Medcity, and V. P Vipin, Consultant – Endocrinology, Aster Medcity, Kochi attended the press conference held at press club.
