Last update:

   19-Sep-2022
 

Arch Hellen Med, 39(5),September-October 2022, 583-589

REVIEW

Non healing wounds and lower extremity amputation in the dialysis population

E. Balanikas,1 G. Vasilopoulos,2 G. Fasoi,2 A. Kavga2, O. Govina,2 I. Kalemikerakis2
1Emergency Department, Naval Hospital of Athens, Athens,
2Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece

Patients with end stage renal disease who are receiving dialysis present several comorbidities and complications, including foot ulceration and amputation, which lead to a decrease in their quality of life and increased mortality. Diabetes mellitus (DM), peripheral arterial disease, uremic polyneuropathy and calciphylaxis are some of the risk factors that can lead to the occurrence of foot ulcers, often necessitating lower limb amputation. The dialysis population is well monitored during frequent visits to a healthcare setting for regular treatment, and organization of a systematic foot health prevention program for these patients in this setting could reduce their risk of foot ulceration and lower limb amputation, and lead to improved outcomes.

Key words: Amputation, Dialysis, Leg ulcers.


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