I’m so sorry to hear about your amputation. I am also an amputee, and I can relate to the challenges that you are most likely facing after the loss of your limb.
Circulation problems are a huge cause of amputations in the U.S. If you have a blockage or a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to your legs, the circulation to your legs is reduced. You may have developed pain in your feet or legs that may keep you awake at night. You may have also developed foot ulcers or even black areas on your feet, legs, or toes.
If your arterial disease is left untreated, normally your pain will increase. Tissue in your legs will eventually die because of a lack of oxygen and nutrients, which can cause infection and gangrene to set in. At some point, amputation may be recommended. However, amputation is a last resort, and your doctor will likely not recommend it unless he or she has decided there is no other way to improve your circulation.
It’s likely that your doctor will do everything possible to save your leg. Unless there is an emergency situation with your limb, as a patient you should always get a second opinion before agreeing to an amputation. In some cases, it is possible that the leg can be repaired enough to avoid an amputation.
If you believe that your doctor unnecessarily amputated your limb when it could have been saved, or if you believe that negligent treatment by a doctor caused you to lose the limb, you should speak with an attorney. An attorney can request your medical records and make a determination about whether you have a strong case.
If you are exploring your legal options after an amputation, call me, Conal Doyle, Amputation Attorney, at 310-385-0567. My team can help. Call us today to learn more or to schedule your free consultation.