Evaluating the Impact of an Interdisciplinary Integrated Limb Preservation Service Operating Concurrently with a Single-specialty Service

Overview

Journal J Foot Ankle Res

Publisher Wiley

Specialty Orthopedics

Date 2024 Apr 13

PMID 38613833

Authors

Sebouh Bazikian

Alyssa J Pyun

Hanke Zheng

William Padula

Tanzim Khan

Kenneth Ziegler

Laura Shin

Gregory A Magee

Vincent L Rowe

David G Armstrong

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: This study examined the efficacy of an interdisciplinary limb preservation service (LPS) in improving surgical outcomes for diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) patients compared to traditional care.

Methods: Data from January 1, 2017 to September 30, 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. An interdisciplinary LPS clinic began on August 1, 2018, coexisting with a preexisting single specialty service. Primary outcomes were major/minor amputation rates and ratios and hospital length of stay. Surgical endpoints pre- and post-LPS launch were compared.

Results: Among 976 procedures for 731 unique DFU patients, most were male (80.4%) and Hispanic (89.3%). Patient demographics were consistent before and after LPS initiation. Major amputation rates decreased by 45.5% (15.4%-8.4%, p = 0.001), with outpatient procedures increasing over 5-fold (3.3% pre-LPS to 18.7% post-LPS, p < 0.001). Hospital stay reduced from 10.1 to 8.5 days post-LPS (p < 0.001). The major to minor amputation ratio declined from 22.4% to 12.7%.

Conclusions: The interdisciplinary LPS improved patient outcomes, marked by fewer major amputations and reduced hospital stays, suggesting the model's potential for broader application.

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