Limb Salvage and Amputee Care in Chicago, IL
When trauma, infection, or severe complications from disease threaten your hand or arm, upper extremity limb salvage offers a chance to preserve both form and function.
Talented reconstructive surgeon Dr. Lindsay E. Janes specializes in upper extremity reconstruction, helping patients retain their independence after devastating injuries. She uses advanced surgical techniques to help stop the damage and prevent limb loss in patients with complex upper limb conditions.
When Is Limb Salvage Needed?
Limb salvage is considered when damage to the arm or hand is so significant that it compromises blood supply, soft tissue, bone integrity, or nerve function.
Examples of cases when limb salvage surgery might be necessary include:
- Traumatic injuries such as crush injuries or open fractures. Another example is degloving, in which the skin is physically torn off and visibly separated, often exposing muscles, tendons, or bone, or when the skin separates from the tissue underneath it without tearing off.
- Severe infections causing tissue death
- Bone and tissue cancers affecting the hand or arm. This may include cancers that originate there and metastatic bone cancer that started in another part of the body and spread to the bone in the hand or arm. Another example of cancer-related limb salvage may involve repair following oncology surgery, like a tumor resection that results in extensive tissue loss.
- Chronic disease complications, including chronic non-healing wounds, infections, and other serious complications of diabetes or vascular disorders.
Choosing Limb Salvage vs. Amputation
The decision to attempt limb salvage instead of amputation depends on multiple factors, including the extent of the damage, the amount of tissue available for reconstruction, the patient’s overall health, and the patient’s functional goals.
What Limb Salvage Can Achieve
In upper extremity cases, the goal of limb salvage isn’t just to save the limb: It’s to return as much function as possible.
After initial evaluation and imaging, Dr. Janes will develop a treatment strategy designed to protect viable tissue, restore blood flow, and prepare for reconstruction.
Her goals for limb salvage involve reconstructing the delicate nerve, tendon, and muscle tissue to allow for improved sensation and function. Surgeries such as nerve grafting, tendon transfer, and muscle transplant, which are all procedures that Dr. Janes routinely performs as an experienced reconstructive surgeon, may play a key role in recovery.
In some cases, she may also stabilize or repair bony structures to support mobility and strength in the hand and arm.
Each plan is tailored to the patient’s condition and long-term goals.
Limb salvage is a complex process that often unfolds in stages. Patients may require multiple surgeries as part of their recovery, followed by dedicated rehabilitation to regain strength and function.
Dr. Janes works closely with therapy providers, other surgeons, and other members of your care team to ensure you have the best possible experience and recovery.
Limb Salvage: Preserving What Matters Most
Keeping your arm or hand isn’t just about appearance. It’s about holding your loved one’s hand, preparing your own meals, getting dressed without stress, returning to the work you love, or doing the things that matter most to you.
Whatever your reasons may be, Dr. Janes understands that the decision to undergo limb salvage is a deeply personal one. She takes the time to learn and understand your motivations and what you hope to gain from the surgery.
Then, she works hand-in-hand with you to develop a realistic and empowering treatment plan.
Limb Salvage Consultations in Chicago
Limb-threatening injuries or complications don’t have to mean loss of your arm or hand. Dr. Lindsay E. Janes provides thoughtful, advanced care that focuses on preserving limb integrity and restoring everyday function. To schedule a consultation, call (312) 695-6022.