Limb preservation services now available at Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta

MURRIETA – Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta announced the start of a limb preservation program, which provides the highest level of care to patients impacted by uncontrolled diabetes, vascular or arterial disease who may be at risk for limb amputation.

More than 1 in 10 Americans has diabetes, 25 percent of whom do not realize they have the disease, which increases their risk of serious complications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Complications can include stroke, heart disease, kidney failure and amputation of toes, feet or legs. Complications of diabetes claim approximately 100,000 limbs annually in the United States.

John Santoro, director of the Limb Preservation program, said the goal of the program is to help patients minimize their risk of amputation by restoring blood flow, controlling infections, maximizing wound healing and improving compliance with diet and medication.

"What sets us apart from any other limb salvage program is the whole health approach," Santoro said. "We want to change our patients' and their families' outlook on their overall health so they don't relapse. This approach enables us to preserve limbs and achieve the best possible outcomes."

The first of its kind in southwest Riverside County, the new Limb Preservation program at LLU Medical Center – Murrieta relies on a whole person care approach that brings together a multi-disciplinary team of highly trained experts specializing in emergency medicine, wound care, cardiology, infectious disease, vascular care, podiatry, nutrition and wellness, as well as behavioral health.

The program utilizes the most advanced wound care treatments, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the use of stem cells to facilitate healing and the most current techniques for vascular evaluations.

"Most patients actually have the ability to improve their health, control their disease and live a longer and higher quality of life. We want to help make that happen," Santoro said.

To refer a patient or learn more about the Limb Preservation program, call (951) 704-1741.

Submitted by Loma Linda University Health.