Gangrene - symptom, Treatment of Gangrene
Death of a body part following interruption of blood supply.
It can follow: Injury to a major blood vessel,
- When a dot is blockinga blood vessel.
- Occlusion of an artery by external pressure(generally in a limb) .
By a tight POP cast, or by massive infective cellulitis or bythe massive leak of intravenous fluid due to a neglected IV infusion.
Long-standing peripheral vascular disease like TAO (Thrombo-Angi tis-Obli terans). Infections, can cause wet gangrene in diabetics. The 'diabetic foot' is particularly prone to gangrene. Uncontrolled sepsis in small infants and toddlers can cause gangrene.
Warning signs
- Change of color: either blueness or pallor
- Change of temperature: cold limb
- Change of sensation: numbness and pain.
What your doctor will look for:
- Pulsations of the relevant artery
- A Doppler test may be ordered to check blood flow.
Treatment
- This is a pressing. emergency
- If gangrene is impending, every effort will be made to save the limb.
- If gangrene has already set in, an amputation is the only way to save the patient's life.
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