Figuring out the heads or tails decision in regeneration
Researchers found that wntP-1 gene expression occurs at all wound sites, triggering regeneration polarity in planaria. Blocking the gene results in heads regrowing instead of tails.
Amputation
Articles tagged with Amputation
Limb-sparing surgery may not provide better quality of life than amputation for bone cancer patients
A recent review suggests that limb-sparing surgery does not provide a significant benefit to patients with bone and soft tissue sarcomas. The study found that early and late complications are more common with limb-sparing surgery, but some advantages were seen for higher surgical sites in the lower limb, such as the hip.
Cell transplantation and cardiac repair
Researchers explore two bone marrow cell delivery methods to treat heart attacks and limb ischemia. Studies show that anterograde intra-coronary delivery improves left ventricle function, while bone marrow stem cell transplants increase blood flow in severely ischemic limbs.
Show and prove
Temple University's School of Podiatric Medicine has received a $650,000 NIH grant to test the effectiveness of a personalized, visual diabetic foot education strategy. The program aims to improve health literacy and empower patients to make better decisions about their foot care.
Fenofibrate reduces risk of first amputation for type 2 diabetics by 36 percent
The FIELD study found that fenofibrate significantly reduced the risk of first diabetes-related amputations in patients with type 2 diabetes. The treatment also showed a significant reduction in minor amputations without large-vessel disease, while major amputation risks did not differ between groups.
New surgical technique shows promise for improving function of artificial arms
Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) appears to enable improved control of prosthetic arms for patients with arm amputations. The study, published in JAMA, found that TMR patients achieved high motion selection and completion rates, similar to those of control participants.
A new hand -- and signs of sensory recovery
A new hand transplant has shown emerging sense of touch in a 54-year-old man's former 'hand area' of the brain 35 years after amputation. The brain's map of the individual fingers is still evolving with increasing sensation, but researchers are optimistic about the potential for future recovery.
Will the 'bare below the elbows' rule for doctors cut infection rates or just patient confidence?
The UK government's 'bare below the elbows' rule for doctors is aimed at reducing hospital-acquired infections like MRSA and C.difficile. However, medical opinion is divided on whether this policy will compromise professional image without sufficient evidence of infection reduction.
African-Americans have 5 times higher amputation rate
A new Northwestern University study found people in African American communities on Chicago's South and West Side have a five times higher rate of lower limb amputations than predominantly white suburbs. The high rate is linked to lack of access to primary care, diabetes management programs, and specialty care.
Egyptian foot care center recieves International Diabetes Federation grant
A two-year study project aims to create a diabetes foot care centre in Alexandria, Egypt, providing care and education to people living with diabetes. The project seeks to reduce amputation rates by at least 25% through prevention, multi-disciplinary treatment of foot ulcers, and close monitoring.
Mental health linked to amputation risk in diabetic veterans
A recent study has linked lower mental health scores to an increased risk of major amputations in diabetic veterans. The research, published in General Hospital Psychiatry, suggests that addressing mental health functioning is crucial in preventing amputation risk.
Injury report shows all-terrain vehicles not child's play
A study of 500 consecutive children admitted to Arkansas Children's Hospital following ATV accidents found a high incidence of head, spinal, lung, and extremity injuries. Many victims suffered permanent disabilities or fatalities, highlighting the risks associated with ATV use in children.
MIT aids creation of neural prosthetic devices
Researchers at MIT have created an algorithm to convert brain signals into action in patients with paralysis or amputations, unifying disparate approaches to neural prosthetic devices. The technique provides a common framework for various measurement techniques and brain regions.
Clot-dissolving agent may be beneficial in treatment of severe frostbite
A preliminary study suggests that administering a blood clot-dissolving medication within 24 hours of severe frostbite injury can significantly reduce the risk of amputation. The treatment, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), has been shown to improve blood flow and prevent cell death in affected limbs.
When it comes to preventing amputation in diabetics, site, not size, matters
A new study published in Diabetes Care identifies two critical factors that increase the risk of recurrent wounds in diabetics: the location under the big toe and poor blood flow. This information can help physicians predict and prevent complications, including gangrene and amputation.
Gene therapy shows promise as treatment for diseased limbs
A Phase I clinical trial suggests gene therapy is a safe treatment option for patients with poor circulation and blocked blood vessels in their lower limbs. The study found that almost half of patients reported complete resolution of chronic pain and over a quarter experienced complete healing of chronic wounds after one year.
Prosthetic arm acts like a real limb
Researchers developed targeted muscle reinnervation to improve control of a motorized prosthetic arm, allowing for better functional movement and sensory feedback. The technique enables the re-routed nerves to grow into muscles, giving users improved control and potentially 'feeling' sensations with an artificial hand.
Pine tree bark reduces diabetic leg ulcers
A study found that Pycnogenol heals diabetic leg ulcers by improving blood circulation and reducing tissue necrotization. Patients treated with oral and local Pycnogenol experienced a significant decrease in ulcer size and had higher oxygen presence in the skin.
Landmark study on diabetic foot infection published
The study found that nearly 9 in 10 amputations performed are instigated by an infection. Poor circulation was not the primary cause of amputation but rather determined its level, highlighting the importance of preventing infection to prevent severe outcomes.
Study analyzes gene therapy for patients at high risk for amputation
A new gene therapy has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of amputation in patients with critical limb ischemia. Despite no improvement in wound healing, the treatment demonstrated a reduction in amputation risk and potential for lower mortality rates in this critically ill population.
Diabetics who control blood sugar today are more likely to have healthy feet and nerves tomorrow
A study published in Diabetes Care found that tight blood glucose control can reduce the risk of nerve problems and foot amputations in diabetics. The study involved 1,441 people with Type 1 diabetes who had controlled their blood sugar tightly for at least five years.
Amputation among patients with diabetes mellitus: Is height a factor?
A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found a strong correlation between height and the risk of amputation among patients with diabetes mellitus. The research showed that every 10-cm increase in height was associated with a 16% higher risk of amputation, even among those with well-controlled diabetes.
Research helps identify precursors to foot disease in diabetes patients
A study identified measurable differences in the skin of diabetes patients, particularly those with peripheral neuropathy, before ulcerative foot disease develops. The findings also showed reduced energy reserves in foot muscles, highlighting microcirculatory changes as a major factor.
The Lancet highlights the global burden of foot disease and amputation in diabetic patients
The Lancet reports a growing global burden of diabetic foot disease and amputation, affecting an estimated 25% of people with diabetes. Prevention measures such as foot-care services and simple clinical tests can reduce the risk of complications, but are often ignored in many countries.
Availability of vascular surgeons impacts amputation rate
A study by Rice University/Baylor College of Medicine found that areas with more vascular surgeons have lower amputation rates and more bypass surgery performed. The disease affects 8-12 million people and is a major cause of amputations, especially in diabetics.
Avoiding amputation: Early infection intervention can save feet & legs
A new study suggests that minor surgery plus antibiotics can prevent foot-bone infections and amputations. Patients with diabetes are at high risk, especially those with poor circulation and kidney problems.
Rebuilding wounded veterans: Annual review of limb loss & prosthetics research
New classification system improves elastomeric liner prescription, while telerehabilitation and pressure casting streamline wound management. Studies also explore shoe choice impact on residual limb damage and develop novel knee prosthesis for increased stability.
Hispanics face high rates of unstable health care coverage, low rates of preventive care
High rates of uninsured Hispanics and unstable coverage put them at risk for preventable health problems. One quarter of Hispanics aged 50-64 went without needed care due to costs.
Similar outcomes for limb reconstruction and amputation after trauma
A study comparing limb reconstruction and amputation after trauma found that patients undergoing both procedures experienced similar functional recoveries, with 53% returning to work within two years. Despite medical advancements, those with amputations had higher rates of rehospitalization for complications.
No functional difference found between amputation and reconstructive surgery for patients
A large prospective study found no significant difference in functional outcomes between patients who undergo reconstructive surgery and those who have a leg amputated. Both groups experienced high levels of disability and psychological distress two years post-treatment.
African-Americans more likely to lose limbs due to vascular disease than other groups
Researchers found African-Americans are two to four times more likely to undergo lower limb amputations, with higher rates among above-knee amputations. The study highlights the need for further investigation into underlying causes and public health initiatives to alleviate excess risk of limb loss.
More hand transplants to be performed, predict experts at international congress
The latest studies on hand transplants show that powerful drugs can prevent rejection while minimizing risks. Most patients experience only transient problems, which are easily corrected with treatment adjustments.
Beth Israel Deaconess study documents outstanding surgical outcomes for diabetes patients
A 10-year study of over 6,500 patients with diabetes undergoing major vascular operations revealed a mortality rate of only 1 percent. The study's findings contradict previous research and suggest that patients with diabetes should be offered the same surgical options as those without diabetes.
Prosthetic limb to be controlled by microchip: Agreement signed to create ‘smart’ leg
A 'smart' prosthetic lower limb is being developed with a digital control system, enabling amputees to maintain active lives. The leg will simulate human gait and adjust to terrain, reducing pressure sores and improving comfort.
Amputation rates are rising in elderly despite advances in treatment
Amputation rates among elderly Americans have risen due to limited capacity for bypass surgery and angioplasty procedures. Diabetes remains a major risk factor, with 40-60% of amputations involving diabetic patients.
Brain Study Sheds Light On The 'Phantom Limbs' Of Amputees
A recent study published in the journal Science has shed new light on the phenomenon of phantom limbs in amputees. Researchers found that the brain adapts by reorganizing nerve cells and increasing activity in pain-related areas, potentially leading to new strategies for preventing post-amputation pain and recovery of function.
New Piece To Puzzle In Phantom Pain Mystery
A study at the University of Toronto has discovered a biological basis for phantom sensations experienced by amputees. The researchers found that neurons in the brain that used to represent sensation in the lost limb remain functional and are now driven by stimulation of other body parts, usually the part closest to the amputated limb.
Sandia Helps Russian Nuclear Weapons Scientists Become Prosthetics Developers
A US-funded project at Sandia National Laboratories has successfully diverted Russian nuclear weapons scientists to develop a new artificial foot for amputees. The foot features a rolling ball joint that mimics the natural movement of the human foot, reducing user discomfort and potential.
New Blood Vessels Grow With Gene Therapy
Researchers successfully used gene therapy to grow new blood vessels in eight people with obstructed leg circulation due to atherosclerosis. The therapy, called therapeutic angiogenesis, helped improve blood flow, reduce pain and gangrene risk, and even prevented amputations.