Why are there so many amputations?

Tue, Jun 12. 2012

Editor: I have been noting for some time now with great unease, the number of amputations performed by doctors on diabetic patients here in St Vincent and the Grenadines. My concern was heightened when I read a news story in a local newspaper on June 1, 2012, with the heading: Diabetes help on its way!{{more}} The story reported on a visiting medical team from Taiwan. According to the report, ‘The team visit at a time when according to Dr. [Rosalind] Ambrose of the Caribbean Medical Imaging Centre, at least one amputation, the result of diabete,(sic) was performed in SVG every week.’ Why so many amputations?

I have lived among diabetics for most of my life. Many lived what one would consider a normal life, no amputations! Sores and bruises were treated and allowed to heal or dressed and managed properly. Apparently there is now a new and major cure for diabetics with sores and bruises – amputation! Unfortunately, many amputations, especially among the elderly, give rise to stress and death shortly after.

I am, therefore, appealing to those with the responsibility, to kindly review what appears to be the main cure for diabetics with sores and/or bruises; amputation.

I am not making excuses for those diabetics who are careless and irresponsible in their conduct with regards to their condition. I am speaking instead for the many who are concerned about the apparent rush to amputate once a diabetic has a sore or bruise. Isn’t there another way?

Curtis M.King