LIMB SALVAGE
Can My Limb Be Saved?
Before amputation is accepted as the only option, a reconstructive evaluation can help determine whether limb salvage may be possible.
Advanced limb salvage and complex extremity reconstruction in Northern Virginia, serving Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC.
WHEN A LIMB IS AT RISK
When Is Limb Salvage Considered?
Limb salvage may be considered when injury, disease or complications threaten the health or function of an arm or leg.
Traumatic Injury
Severe fractures, crush injuries, sports injuries, like Alex Smith's and other major trauma where the limb remains intact but is badly damaged.
Malignant Tumors
Cancer affecting the bone or soft tissue of an arm or leg where reconstruction may be needed after tumor removal.
Vascular Disease
Poor blood flow that places tissue at risk and may threaten the viability of a limb.
Diabetic Complications
Complex wounds and infections that do not heal properly and can place a limb at risk.
THE CASE THAT MADE NATIONAL NEWS
Alex Smith's Limb Salvage Story
In November 2018, NFL quarterback Alex Smith suffered a devastating fracture of his tibia and fibula during a game against the Houston Texans. What began as a severe orthopedic injury became life-threatening after he developed a serious infection and necrotizing fasciitis.
Dominion Plastic Surgery's Dr. Vineet Mehan and Dr. Earl Johnson were part of the multidisciplinary surgical team involved in saving Smith's leg. Dr. Mehan served as the lead reconstructive surgeon during the complex limb salvage process.
After extensive treatment, reconstruction and rehabilitation, Smith ultimately returned to professional football.
NATIONAL COVERAGE
The Story Beyond the Operating Room
Alex Smith's fight to save his leg and return to football drew national attention. Explore coverage of his injury, limb salvage treatment and remarkable recovery.
UNDERSTANDING LIMB SALVAGE
Saving a Limb Is About More Than Keeping It
Limb salvage focuses on preserving the limb when medically appropriate while addressing the underlying problem and working toward healing, stability and useful function.
Control the Threat
Address damaged, infected, diseased or unhealthy tissue.
Reconstruct
Rebuild missing or damaged structures using the reconstructive approach appropriate for the case.
Restore Function
Work toward a stable, healed and functional extremity.
Limb salvage is not possible or appropriate in every situation. Treatment depends on the injury or disease, overall health, expected function and the safest long-term option.
ADVANCED RECONSTRUCTION
When Closing the Wound Isn't Enough
Complex limb salvage may require reconstruction of skin, muscle, bone, nerves, blood vessels or other structures depending on the injury.
Wound Coverage
Healthy tissue can help protect exposed bone, tendons or surgical hardware.
Free Flap Reconstruction
Healthy tissue can be transferred from another part of the body when nearby tissue is not sufficient.
Microsurgery
Small blood vessels can be reconnected to establish circulation to transferred tissue.
Bone & Structural Reconstruction
Bone- or implant-based reconstruction may be used when deeper structural support also needs to be restored.
EVERY CASE IS DIFFERENT
Could Limb Salvage Be an Option for Me?
Whether a limb can be salvaged depends on the extent of injury or disease and what would be required to achieve a safe, durable and functional reconstruction.
YOUR EVALUATION MAY CONSIDER
COMMON QUESTIONS
Limb Salvage FAQs
Can every threatened limb be saved?
Is limb salvage only for cancer patients?
Does limb salvage always require microsurgery?
What is free-flap reconstruction?
When should I seek a limb salvage evaluation?
EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
If Amputation Has Been Discussed, Understand Whether Other Options May Exist.
Every case is different. A limb salvage evaluation can help determine whether reconstruction may be appropriate and what treatment could involve.