Lower Limb Preservation

Each year, over 1,200 major lower limb amputations occur in Ontario, representing one of the highest prevalence rates in Canada. It is estimated that up to 85% of these amputations could be prevented. In the North East and North West regions of Ontario, amputation rates can be up to seven times higher than the provincial average.

Two primary risk factors for major limb amputation are Peripheral Vascular Disease and Diabetes. Most of these amputations follow the presence of a wound.

It’s crucial to design and implement a limb preservation program using a Two-Eyed Seeing approach that incorporates the perspectives and experiences of Indigenous community members, leaders, and healthcare providers.

The Lower Limb Preservation Project has two overarching objectives set by the province:

1. To reduce avoidable, non-traumatic major lower-limb amputations in our region.
2. To improve equitable access to high-quality early screening, cardiovascular risk factor modification, and integrated lower-limb wound care.

The goals of this work are to enhance:

1. Integration, connection, and collaboration among care teams and resources.
2. Coordination and consistency in wound management.
3. Early identification and preventative care.
4. Incorporation of cultural and traditional practices in chronic disease management.

• Introduced the use of standardized assessments and screening of the foot and lower leg within health clinics in our partnering First Nations Communities to improve the early detection and prevention of complications such as wounds due to neuropathy (loss of sensation of the feet).
• Provide hands on education and training to primary care providers and allied health staff on how to use the assessment and screening tools in their practice.
• Support nurses and allied health staff to expand their knowledge and skillset to provide care to wounds associated with Peripheral Arterial Disease and Diabetes through their participation in continuing education courses, Skin Wellness Associate Nurse and Wound Canada Champion training.
• Host community engagement sessions titled “Your feet and diabetes” for community members and elders.