Limb Preservation Program

Limb Preservation Program

The Limb Preservation Program employs limb-saving techniques though a multi-disciplinary approach. Most often, we care for people with diabetes – who have conditions that put them at risk for foot and leg amputation, such as infections, wounds that won't heal and peripheral artery disease. 

Our program is the first of its kind in Montana focusing on prevention of amputation. The program offers early intervention to help patients maintain as much mobility and function as possible, with the goal of avoiding amputation and promoting health to prevent future issues.

A nurse navigator works closely with our team of specialists to manage care, coordinate referrals and assist with insurance authorizations, as needed. Patients may benefit from seeing specialists in cardiology, wound care, podiatry, endovascular surgery, interventional radiology, vascular surgery, orthopedics, plastic surgery and/or physical medicine & rehabilitation.

While our team is committed to doing everything we can to prevent amputation, sometimes that outcome is unavoidable. If amputation is required, we work closely with vascular surgeons in the area to get patients the care they need and will continue to connect them with rehabilitation, prosthesis fittings and follow-up appointments. 

Signs It Is Time to Call 911 or visit the ER

• Signs of a Heart Attack
• Signs of a Stroke
• Signs of Low Blood Flow to the Limb - Sudden, severe pain or inability to move the limb – especially if the limb is also numb or cool to the touch. 
• Signs of a Risky Infection - Discolored and/or foul-spelling ulcer, cut or other wound. Toe is turning a dark color and there's an odor.
• Always head to the ER when life or limb are at risk, any signs of a heart attack, signs of a stroke or shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

When to Make An Appointment

• If you have concerns about your foot or leg health – whether it be a wound, ulcer or pain while walking 

Specially-Trained Nurse Navigator

Each patient will work with a specially-trained nurse navigator who will serve as a point of contact to guide patients through diagnosis and treatment. Based on evaluation from our specialists, the navigator will assist with scheduling non-invasive tests that will advise your course of treatment. These could include blood pressure screenings, ultrasounds and other tests to evaluate the quality of blood flow in your limbs.  After testing, your navigator will set-up appropriate consultations with expert physicians. 

Should you need surgery, the nurse navigator will also coordinate the recovery process, including rehabilitation, orthotics fitting and routine follow-ups.