Ulcers in individuals with critical limb ischemia develop because narrowed or blocked arteries restrict proper blood flow to the limbs. This lack of blood flow means tissues don’t receive enough nutrients or oxygen to function and heal effectively, leading to tissue damage and ulcers, which are significant critical limb ischemia symptoms.

With timely and appropriate critical limb ischemia treatment, blood flow to the leg can often be restored. Once circulation is improved, wounds and dying tissue can heal. Surgical procedures, including endovascular options or surgical bypass, are available to help restore blood flow. Differentiating between acute vs critical limb ischemia, where CLI is a more chronic and severe stage, is important for determining the best course of action.

In a critical limb ischemia treatment approach like angioplasty, a balloon-tipped catheter is used to open the blocked artery and improve blood flow. A stent may then be placed inside the vessel to help keep the artery walls open and maintain adequate circulation.

Uncontrolled diabetes significantly increases the risk of vascular disease, including critical limb ischemia, and impairs the body’s ability to heal wounds. Infected wounds pose a serious risk, especially for individuals with diabetes, emphasizing the need for daily foot checks and prompt medical attention for any skin breaks.